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The Complete Travel Packing Checklist for 2024 & the Best Packing Tips [Printable]

Erin Miller

Content Contributor

187 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 26 U.S. States Visited: 28

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

41 Published Articles 3371 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 50 U.S. States Visited: 28

Table of Contents

General packing tips & tricks, apps for packing assistance, apps for itinerary management, before leaving the house.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our  Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

Key Takeaways

• Essential items include travel documents, credit cards, toiletries, medications, electronics, and chargers. With these, you are ready for everything.
• Pack versatile clothing, comfortable shoes, and travel-sized versions of your favorite products to save space and stay organized.
• Utilize packing cubes and a travel checklist to ensure you remember everything and maximize your luggage space.

When it comes down to it, packing for a trip (domestic or international) can be stressful. Do you wait until the last minute? Put off researching what you’ll need for certain activities or weather at your destination? Get distracted easily, or have young kiddos that need attention? It happens to the best of us!

On the one hand, if you under-pack, you might not be prepared. But if you over-pack, you run the risk of incurring hefty baggage fees or missing out on space to bring home that lovely souvenir. If you forget an essential travel document, you could even miss your trip altogether! We get stressed just thinking about it!

That’s why Upgraded Points is bringing you a guide full of packing tips and tricks, a printable travel checklist, a list of apps to help you out, and reminders for to-do’s around the house before you leave.

Hot Tip: Don’t forget to also check out our “Carry-On Travel Essentials” guide where we’ve compiled a “His” and “Hers” list of some great products that we simply can’t do without when we travel!

📋  Click To View Our Printable Travel Packing List >>  📋

Before you even take your suitcase out of the closet

Check the weather at your destination.

This seems intuitive, but you’d be surprised how many people are stuck traveling in rainy season without a raincoat.

Note how many days/nights you will be away.

This will help you decide the number of necessary outfits. Obviously, how often you prefer to wear the same clothes plays a part in this as well.

Note any special activities/events you may partake in.

Traveling for a birthday? You don’t want to forget that heartfelt gift you bought weeks in advance. Going to a wedding? It’d be a shame if you showed up without your suit. Hiking in Hawaii? Your water-shoes won’t get much use if you leave them behind.

Make a packing list early and review it at least twice. (Yes, twice.)

You can easily find printable vacation packing lists online (like ours above), or you can write out your own. There are also a number of apps you can utilize if you prefer something more tech-based. Read about several of these below!

Timing is key here. If you jot things down or review your printed list in advance, it gives you the opportunity to take a second look with a fresh mind. All too often you’ll remember something you didn’t yesterday when your brain was thinking about pizza instead of packing.

If you’re printing a list that’s not trip specific, review it first and immediately cross off items you won’t need. Why bring a winter coat to the beach?

Take items you can grab at your destination off the list.

If you’re planning to travel with only a carry-on, this tip is especially important as it will save space (at least for your outgoing journey!).

Most times when traveling, your hotel will provide shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothpaste, etc.; why waste space packing them? If you’re a little picky about your toiletries or you’re not staying at a hotel, you’ll probably still encounter a drugstore where you can buy anything you might need.

Purchase travel-sized containers or toiletries if you plan on bringing your own.

Remember regulations for the amount of liquids you can bring in a carry-on for a flight. You’ll want travel-sized containers if you plan on carrying liquids this way.

Even if you’re flying with a checked bag and are allowed more liquids, do you really need that 16oz bottle of shampoo for a weeklong trip? Cutting it will save you room for other essential items.

Choose the right luggage.

Yes, different airlines have different restrictions on sizes for carry-ons and checked bags but stick to some general guidelines and you should be safe.

For carry-ons, you’re generally accepted at/under max linear dimensions of 155cm/45in. For checked bags, you’re generally safe under 158cm/62in max linear dimensions. However, be sure to check the airline you’re flying with prior to packing, as some can be stingy!

You also want to seriously consider the type of bag you enjoy traveling with – shoulder bag , backpack , roller bag, hard shell , soft shell, etc. There are definitely loads of options so just remember, your bag shouldn’t stress you out, it should make traveling easier.

Hot Tip:  We’ve done tons of research on this topic so don’t miss our articles on the best carry-on bags and the best checked luggage bags for any type of traveler. 

When you’ve done your prep and you’re almost ready to pack

Essentials first.

Gather your most important items first. This includes all travel documents such as your passport, ID/driver’s license, boarding passes, hotel reservations, etc. This also includes anything you’ll seriously regret forgetting and can’t purchase while traveling: wallet , credit cards , camera , cell phone, etc.

This being said, there are a number of apps that can assist with itinerary management and decrease the number of printed documents you’ll need to carry. See our list of helpful packing apps at the end of this post.

Choose an appropriately sized suitcase.

If you only have 1 suitcase, then you’re set. If you’ve got more options, attempt to use the smaller one – most people tend to overpack when their suitcase is too large for their trip. You don’t really need an extra sweater, 2 more t-shirts, and another pair of boots just because they fit! Plus, your baggage will be a lot easier to handle if it’s smaller and lighter, which will cut your stress level significantly.

Lay everything out.

Laying all of your items out allows you to plan outfits and account for your days/nights away. When everything’s laid out, you can clearly see how much you’re bringing and spot missing items easier. This also includes shoes, accessories, toiletries, etc.

Dividing items into sections based on where they’ll be packed is also helpful.

Lastly, don’t forget to lay out your plane/travel day outfit and consider it with your other pieces.

Pick simple mix-and-match pieces to prevent overpacking.

In general, choose simple tops and bottoms that can be mixed and matched to make multiple outfits. Did you know that just 3 bottoms (pants, shorts, skirt, etc.), 4 tops (tee, tank, etc.), and 2 outer layers (sweater, coat, or cardigan) can make up to 24 different outfits??

Depending on the reason for your trip, you might need to pack a special item that can only be worn once (suit, bridesmaid dress, etc.), but try to keep these to a minimum! This step is key if you’re pressed for space.

PUT STUFF BACK!

Once you’ve laid out all your items, really consider the number of days you’ll be on your trip. Chances are you could stand to put a few things back in the closet in order to pack more efficiently. Remember, no one wants to pay a fee for overweight baggage or lug around extra clothes for no reason!

Pack it up.

You never thought we’d actually get to this step, did you? There are a number of recommended packing tips when it comes to getting everything neatly in the suitcase. This can be overwhelming, but if you pick up the right habits packing will seem much less stressful.

Check, double-check, and triple-check your essentials.

Put a checkmark next to each item you’ve packed and DON’T TAKE IT OUT OF YOUR BAG. If you’re not ready to pack an item, do NOT check the box! That’s exactly how you leave your phone at home on the charger next to your bed. “But the box was checked!!!” you’ll say…

(Note: this rule actually goes for everything, not just essentials.)

If you’re notorious for leaving essentials at home, print an extra travel checklist just for those items and tape it to your front door the night before you leave. Make a promise that you can’t walk out without reviewing the list one final time.

Fold, Interfold, Bundle, or Roll?

By now you’ve probably heard that old-fashioned folding isn’t the best method to use when it comes to packing, especially in tight cases. If you have the room to spare, virtually any of these methods will do.

Interfolding involves layering clothes on top of each other in a top-to-bottom, bottom-to-top format, then interweaving them as you fold them together. If you fold the items in accordance with the size of your suitcase, you’re left with a neat little bundle that will fit right in. Additionally, this style of folding will leave your clothing virtually wrinkle-free.

Bundle packing is very similar to interfolding, but you are tightly folding or wrapping your clothing items around a soft core (like a dopp kit , stack of underwear, cloth zippered jewelry bag , etc.). Bundle packing is also said to reduce wrinkles and save space.

Many people also recommend rolling when packing your clothes – at least for softer items and jeans. Again, this method tends to save room and reduce creasing in the process.

If none of the above methods are doing the trick and you don’t have the option of a hanging garment bag , it may be beneficial to learn the proper way to fold nicer items (like a dress shirt or suit coat ) for the best results.

Pack liquids in secure bags.

Toiletries that can leak will leak. These should be placed in a plastic zippered bag or another secure bag of your choosing. Some travelers even encourage cutting small squares of plastic wrap to cover the opening between bottles and their lids in attempts to prevent further seepage.

Utilize shoe space when you can.

Rolled-up socks, belts, gloves, stocking caps, and other small items can easily fit into shoes (as long as they’re relatively clean and not smelly!). This also helps the shoe hold its shape throughout your travels. Rolled-up belts can also be used to keep a shirt collar stiff if needed.

Prevent dirty shoes from soiling clothes.

Pack them in a separate space or utilize plastic bags/shower caps to cover the bottoms and prevent dirtying the rest of your clothing. Have a delicate pair of dress shoes or heels? Pack them in their own bags if possible, or clean the bottoms and wrap with a durable garment.

Toss a dryer sheet into your suitcase to keep things smelling fresh.

While you’re at it, grab a stain pen or stain wipes for your carry-on. If you happen to spill on one of the only tops you’ve brought and don’t have laundry facilities, you’re cutting your number of outfits drastically. If you know you’ll have laundry facilities or need to wash your clothes by hand, you can purchase individual detergent packets.

Pack a change of clothes in your carry-on.

By packing a change of clothes and undergarments in your carry-on , you’re covered for at least a day if your baggage gets delayed or lost. Some travelers may want to pack an extra pair of shoes just in case.

Similarly, if you’re heading to a beach locale, pack a swimsuit and sandals . If you have to wait to check into your hotel, you can head to the pool while the concierge keeps your luggage.

Keep expensive/irreplaceable items on your person.

As a general rule of thumb, you should leave irreplaceable items at home. This includes objects such as expensive jewelry and heirlooms. If you must travel with them, these items should be kept with you at all times. Do not trust them to be safe when placed in checked baggage; if your suitcase is lost, delayed, or stolen, you’re out of luck.

Similarly, if you must travel with official documents such as birth certificates or social security cards, check to see if a certified copy will suffice. Or maybe take a photo on your phone for less hassle. Otherwise, the same rule applies to these irreplaceable documents.

Follow the TSA 3-1-1 rule for liquids in carry-on baggage.

3 – Travelers may carry liquids, aerosols, gels, creams, and pastes in containers of 3.4oz (100ml) or smaller.

1 – These items must fit into 1 clear plastic quart-sized bag.

1 – Only 1 bag per passenger is allowed.

Remove this bag from your carry-on and place it separately in the screening bin. This is meant to slightly expedite passing through security .

The following apps can be ultra helpful for those who prefer a mobile device to the standard pen and paper methods.

Evernote: While Evernote isn’t technically travel-oriented, it’s all about lists and can be a big help for packing. With Evernote, you can sync your packing list across all your devices, making it easy to keep track of things no matter where you are…even out at the store buying items from your list!

Evernote also enables sharing notes with others, which is especially helpful for group trips. Need reminders? No problem, you can set alerts in Evernote to keep you on top of your game.

Packing Pro: This app is everything you ever wanted if you’re a list maker, and everything you didn’t know you needed if you’re a forgetful person. Packing Pro helps travelers get organized via packing lists. From templates and suggestions to customizable designs, Packing Pro has options for every type of traveler. Users are allowed an unlimited number of packing lists of an unlimited length, and you can even add images, alerts, and mark “need to buy” items.

It also has iCloud support and the ability to share your lists via email, AirDrop, Dropbox, etc. You can also export and edit your lists with Excel, Numbers, or Google Docs. If you’re the type that physically needs to cross things off, you can send directly to a printer too.

The Expert List-Making Assistant is a cool feature if you’re low-maintenance: it will take your parameters (number of people, destination, weather, etc.) and automatically create lists for you.

PackPoint: PackPoint’s purpose is to take the guesswork out of packing. The app pretty much tells you what to pack based on how long you’re traveling, where you’re going, the weather when you get there, and any activities you have planned (chosen from a pre-defined list in the app). With PackPoint Premium, users can connect to TripIt, share their lists across devices, and add customizable packing items/activities.

Travel List: Travel List seems to have fewer bells and whistles. You can do many of the same things as with Packing Pro and PackPoint: create customizable packing lists, sync across your devices, share with other people, and create alerts/reminders. One nice component is their calendar view, which gives a different type of visualization that some people really prefer. And this one is compatible with Apple Watch, which can be a huge organizational perk.

Lists To Do: This app keeps things simple for general to-do lists and is super easy to use. See your list’s percentage progress for a clear visual on how much you have left to do/pack before jetting off and set yourself reminders and share lists with your travel companions.

The following apps are helpful for keeping all your travel information in one place. From flight itineraries to hotel confirmation, event tickets to dinner reservations, they’ve got you covered. Plus, this means fewer printed travel documents you need to worry about carrying with you.

Google Trips: In a nutshell, Google Trips seamlessly integrates reservations (flights, hotels, rental cars, etc.) from your Gmail and creates a specific “trip” in the app. These trips are like folders of information including some basic categories like Reservations, Things to Do, Saved Places, Day Plans, Food & Drink, Getting Around, and Need to Know.

It also provides opportunities for travel inspiration, traveler reviews, dining/drink options, and encyclopedic information on several hundred top cities and attractions around the globe.

Also good to note: when you download your trip, everything is available offline in case you’re stuck without WiFi or data.

Kayak Trips: Part of Kayak’s main app includes a platform called Trips, which acts as an itinerary management app to keep all your pertinent travel information together. With Trips, you can forward your booking confirmations to [email protected] , where your itinerary is managed for you in a nice timeline format with maps and important info all on one screen.

Kayak Trips gives you the ability to send other people access to your travel plans through sharing options, link to your calendar app for planning consistency, and receive SMS and email flight alerts.

TripIt: TripIt is one of the most popular travel organization apps on the market. The app automatically imports flight, hotel, rental car, and other booking confirmations ( concert tickets from StubHub, dinner reservations from OpenTable, etc.) from your e-mail. If you don’t appreciate the e-mail scan, you can always forward your emails to [email protected] or manually input all the information into the system.

TripIt then creates an itinerary in an easy-to-read format, including space for directions between airports, rental car pickup, and hotel details. TripIt also allows for calendar syncing and makes it easy to send your travel info to family/friends by sharing via text, Evernote, LinkedIn, Slack, or WhatsApp.

With TripIt Pro, users get real-time flight alerts, help to find alternative flights, an airline seat tracker for better seats, reward program points tracking, and interactive airport maps.

In this section, we list some steps you might forget to take when you’re in a hurry to leave for vacation.

Remember to:

• Download your travel resources (guidebooks, language apps, etc.)
• Notify credit card companies of upcoming travel if required (international trips)
• Set an email auto-responder if necessary
• Take out the garbage
• Check the washing machine for wet clothes
• Check the dishwasher for dirty dishes
• Turn off all lights and electronics
• Set lighting timers
• Water the plants
• Drip taps (in cold climates where pipes could freeze)
• Close/lock all doors and windows; pull all curtains
• Set alarm system

For longer trips, don’t forget to:

• Empty the refrigerator/pantry of perishable food
• Unplug electronics
• Put a hold on your mail
• Consider having a friend check on your house from time to time

The Upgraded Points team is always jetting off somewhere and even we  still have trouble packing sometimes!

Additionally, if you’re interested in “the best of the best” travel products to up your packing game, check out these posts:

• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags For Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-on Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Travel Duffel Bags on the Market

Lastly, if you’re looking for the top travel-related gifts, we’ve got you covered with our Best Gifts for Travelers .

Related Posts

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Complete Digital Nomad Packing List: 45 Essentials for Men (with FREE PDF!)

For any trip, among the first things to ask yourself is, “what should I bring?”. This guide should answer that question and list the essential packing list for digital nomads.

I’m a backpacker through and through, but in the past few years I’ve upgraded my gear and travel items to accommodate every terrain and type of travel. I’ve stayed in big cities, beach towns, desserts, and even jungles and in those trips, I needed to create packing lists for every occasion.

My packing list have evolved in the past 4 years we’ve travelled. I have an essential list of items that will go regardless of the place, and I have “extension packs” for every type of travel. This list will cover that base list of items.

Pro tip: Print out the list below for an easy reference when you’re packing.

Short on time? Here’s the rundown

Bags & Organizers

• Luggage >> Osprey Farpoint
• Daypack >> Osprey Quasar
• Belt bag >> Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag  
• Toiletry bag >> Maliton Hanging Toiletry Bag
• Gadget Pouch >> Peak Design Tech Pouch
• Dry bag >> Osprey Ultralight 20L
• Backpack raincover >> Frelaxy Hi-Visibility Raincover
• Compression packing cubes >> Cipway Compression Packing Cubes
• TSA-approved padlock >> Diyife 3-digit travel padlock  

Productivity & Tech

• Laptop >> 14″ Apple 2021 MacBook Pro  
• iPad >> 11″ Apple iPad Pro  
• Docking station >> Anker USB-C Hub Adapter
• Portable charger >> Baseus Power Bank
• 3 in 1 USB cable  
• Wireless mouse >> Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Wireless Mobile Mouse  
• E-reader >> Kindle  
• Another unlocked phone
• Earpods or headphones >> Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)  
• Plug adaptor >> Kipston 4 in 1 Universal Travel Adapter  
• laptop stand >> Roost Laptop Stand  
• Keyboard >> Logitech MX Keys Mini Laptop Stand
• 7 Underwear >> SAXX Underwear
• Packable Jacket  >> Columbia Delta Ridge Down Jacket
• Rain Jacket >> Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket    
• 5 T-shirts >> Smartwool Unisex Adult Merino Sport Tee
• 2 Shorts >> Columbia Kestrel Trail Omni-Wick UPF 50 Shorts
• 1 Light Joggers >> Columbia Mens Tech Trail Knit Jogger 
• 1 Pair of Pants >> Lululemon Men’s ABC Pant Classic 34L
• 1 Swimsuit >> SAXX Swim Trunks
• Sunglasses >> Rayban’s Classic Aviator Sunglasses  
• Portable towel >> Sea to Summit Portable Pocket Towel  
• Cap or Hat >> THE NORTH FACE Class V Camp Hat
• Socks >> Smartwool Socks  
• Sandals >> BIRKENSTOCK Arizona Essentials EVA
• Sneakers >> New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12  

Toiletries and Personal Care

• Deodorant >> Crystal Body Deodorant Travel Size
• Grooming Kit >> German-made Manicure/Pedicure Set
• Travel Bottles for Liquids >> HumanGear GoToob+Travel Storage Container
• Sunscreen >> Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion
• Bug spray >> Natrapel 6-Hour Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent Pump Spray
• Lotion >> Jergens® Travel Size Ultra Care Moisturizer
• Lip Balm >> Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm   CA   US
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste >> Quip Electric Toothbrush
• Shampoo >> J·R·LIGGETT’S All-Natural Shampoo Bar
• Soap Bar Case >> FlatPak Soap Bar Case
• Hand sanitizer >> X3 Clean Germ Attack Foaming Hand Sanitizer
• Health insurance information
• Credit card
• Collapsible water bottle >> Hydrapak Stash – Collapsible BPA & PVC Free Water Bottle 
• STERIPEN >> SteriPEN  
• Reusable bag
• Collapsible reusable container
• First aid kit

Bags & Organisers

Carry-on Backpack

Osprey Farpoint

Get on Amazon US

Get on Amazon CA

In our search for the best backpack, Farpoint 40 topped the list. It is a lightweight powerhouse that redefines travel convenience. This pack seamlessly combines minimalist design with exceptional organization and comfort.

Its adaptable harness and breathable backpanel ensure a secure fit while on the move, and conveniently stow away when needed. Whether jet-setting or trekking, the quick access laptop pocket and front shove-it pocket keep your essentials within reach. Crafted sustainably, the Farpoint 40 aligns with eco-conscious values. From its stowaway capabilities to the clever internal organization, every detail is designed for a smooth journey.

Related: Best Backpacks for Digital Nomads

Daypack or Personal Item

Osprey Quasar

Osprey Farpoint 40 already has a daypack of its own, but if you decided to go with a different main pack, then you may need a dedicated daypack. This is where Osprey Men’s Quasar Backpack fits in.

It is a true companion for your daily endeavors. Designed to exceed expectations, this backpack seamlessly merges durability with functionality. Its padded laptop sleeve accommodates laptops up to 15″, ensuring your tech remains secure. A thoughtfully placed heat embossed scratch-free pocket keeps your small devices and sunglasses safe. The front panel bungee compression and upper side compression straps provide extra storage options, while the dual stretch mesh water bottle pockets keep you hydrated on the go.

With its smart organization features, including a front panel organization pocket and magazine/document sleeve, this backpack is the epitome of efficiency.

Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag

This versatile belt bag is meticulously designed to keep your essentials close at hand, so you can effortlessly step into your next journey. Crafted with water-repellent fabric, it safeguards your belongings in various weather conditions. The exterior zippered pocket ensures your valuables are secure, while the interior pockets provide ample space for your essentials. Adjusting to your ideal fit is a breeze, and the excess strap neatly tucks away into elastic loops.

It may be the hippest hip bag out there.

Toiletry Bag

Maliton Hanging Toiletry Bag

With its compact yet spacious design, this upgraded travel bag offers ample room to pack all your vacation essentials in one organized space. The expandable case effortlessly accommodates 8 x 360ml bottles, while its slim profile fits seamlessly into your carry-on.

Stay clutter-free with its multifunctional hanging feature, allowing you to access your hygiene products easily. It also has multiple compartments, including a ventilated pocket, elastic loop pocket, mesh pocket, and transparent see-through pocket for wet items.

Crafted from durable leakproof Nylon with reinforced zippers, your belongings stay secure and upright. Grab the easy-grab handle and embark on worry-free journeys, from overnight stays to outdoor adventures.

Gadget Pouch

Peak Design Tech Pouch

Designed to manage your digital clutter effortlessly, it boasts an expansive capacity for chargers, cables, battery packs, memory cards, and more. With 21 soft, elastic pockets, your gear remains neatly separated and easily accessible. The clamshell opening provides instant visibility to all your essentials. Crafted with Peak Design’s unparalleled quality, it’s weatherproof and ensures durability.

This pouch is versatile, fitting perfectly on your desk or in your bag, with exterior handles and a clamshell-style opening that enhance accessibility. The tech pouch is not just functional, but stylish, designed to complement your lifestyle.

Osprey Ultralight 20L

This waterproof dry sack ensures your items remain organized and shielded. The roll top closure doubles as a waterproof seal and a compression system, making efficient packing a breeze.

Crafted from rugged 40D Ripstop Nylon, its durability is unmatched. Available in various sizes and vibrant colors, these ultralight drysacks simplify organization and visibility. Unlike others, their rectangular shape promotes efficient packing and stand-alone stability.

Equip yourself with this essential adventure companion – fully waterproof, thoughtfully designed, and always reliable.

Backpack Raincover

Frelaxy Hi-Visibility Backpack Rain Cover

Stay prepared and dry with our premium waterproof cover that safeguards your backpack and belongings from soaking in heavy rain. Easy to use, just stretch it over your backpack, secure with the elastic band, and you’re protected!

Weighing as little as 2.2~3.6 ounces, it won’t weigh you down, and its compact design folds neatly into the rainproof storage pouch. Built to withstand the elements with rugged, tear-resistant materials, ensuring lasting protection. Universally designed for most backpack sizes, it’s your worry-free raincoat for backpacks.

Packing Cubes

Cipway Compression Packing Cubes Set

Unlock extra room in your luggage with exterior compression double zippers, making packing and accessing items a breeze. It has compressed sizes of 10 x 7 x 1.5 in (M) and 14 x 10 x 1.5 in (L) expand to 10 x 7 x 4 in (M) and 14 x 10 x 4 in (L). Made with lightweight nylon, these cubes are built to endure constant travel, while reinforced YKK zippers ensure lasting durability.

Stay worry-free with water-resistant, odor-controlled materials that prevent cross-contamination.

TSA-Approved Diyife 3-Digit Travel Locks

Backed by a 45-day money-back guarantee and a 12-month worry-free service, these locks grant Transport Security Officers secure access to your bag while ensuring relocking. Versatile for travel, school, gym, and more, they offer ease and peace of mind. The 3-dial combination eliminates key worries, and the sturdy zinc alloy body and cut-resistant steel cable ensure top-notch security.

Travel with confidence, knowing your luggage is safeguarded by these high-quality locks.

Tech & Gadgets

14″ Apple 2021 MacBook Pro 

I’ve always been a Mac fangirl. I really liked how all my devices are synced, so I may be a bit biased here. The 2021 model is a powerhouse that brings a massive leap in performance, making it perfect for your on-the-go adventures. The up to 10-core CPU ensures 3.7x faster performance for seamless pro workflows. The 32-core GPU offers up to 13x faster graphics for graphics-intensive tasks and gaming. With a 16-core Neural Engine, enjoy 11x faster machine learning performance. This MacBook Pro boasts an impressive battery life of up to 17 hours, ensuring productivity throughout your journey. For the kind of work I do–varies from general business use to photoshop and video editing–I need a 16GB RAM at the minimum, and I loved how the 2021 MacBook Pro handles the workload nicely.

Touchscreen Tablet

11″ Apple iPad Pro

iPad Pro is a great choice for productivity and creativity. With iPadOS, multitasking is seamless – run multiple apps simultaneously, take notes using Apple Pencil’s Scribble feature, and enhance photos effortlessly. Aside from using it as a tablet, I use it as a second monitor using the Sidecar app.

If you pair it up with the Apple Pencil, you can turn your iPad Pro into a canvas for drawing and note-taking.

Anker USB-C Hub Adapter

An essential tool for modern travelers and digital nomads, having a USB-C hub means that you can make all your devices work together. This hub should be able to handle a basic set up of a second monitor (I use my iPad) and wireless mouse. It also has card readers that is useful for moving photos and videos. With a USB-C Power Delivery input, USB-C and USB-A data ports, HDMI, Ethernet, and microSD/SD card reader, it’s a complete solution for diverse needs. Share media in stunning 4K@60Hz via HDMI, transfer files at up to 10 Gbps, and enjoy high-speed pass-through charging up to 85W. Anker also has a worry-free 18-month warranty, so you can always get it exchanged if something goes wrong.

Portable Laptop Charger

Baseus Power Bank

This power-packed companion boasts a substantial 65W PD output, capable of quickly recharging your laptop on the go. Its 20,000mAh capacity fuels your iPhone 13 Pro Max 2.5 times, Galaxy S20 Ultra 2.5 times, and MacBook Pro 13” 0.9 times, making it an ideal travel and business companion. Simultaneously charge your laptop and phone with a 65W PD USB-C port and two 30W QC USB-A ports. The numerical LED indicator keeps you informed about the battery level, while overcharge protection and aluminum alloy housing ensure safety and efficient heat dissipation.

Multi-purpose USB Cable

3-in-1 Charging Cable

This cable was a lifesaver when I was traveling and needed to work. The problem with most portable chargers, including the Anker charger I own, is that they require USB cables (USB-C outputs on these chargers are solely used to charge the charger) to be connected to the charger. This 3-in-1 charging cable eliminates that problem.

Wireless Mouse

Logitech MX Anywhere 2S Wireless Mobile Mouse

Using just the touchpad makes my fingers feel fatigued after long hours, so I need to always have a mouse with me. This is where Logitech’s Anywhere 2S Wireless Mobile Mouse comes in. Seamlessly control up to three computers with Logitech Flow, effortlessly copying and pasting text, images, and files between them, enhancing your workflow.

Enjoy precise control virtually anywhere with Darkfield High Precision tracking, achieving flawless performance even on glass surfaces with up to 4,000 DPI. Swiftly charge the mouse via micro-USB in just three minutes for a full day’s usage or achieve up to 70 days of battery life on a full charge. With faster scrolling and click-to-click navigation options, effortlessly handle lengthy documents and web pages.

Designed for ergonomic comfort, this mobile mouse is the perfect companion for your home, work, or travel needs.

Offering unparalleled portability and sophistication, a Kindle e-reader is the perfect companion for quiet days for relaxation. The adjustable front light and newly integrated dark mode ensure effortless reading day or night, while the glare-free paper-like screen provides comfort even in bright sunlight.

Distraction-free reading becomes easy as messages and notifications fade into the background, allowing you to fully engage in your chosen narrative. With extended battery life, a single USB-C charge lasts up to 6 weeks, and the expanded 16 GB storage accommodates thousands of books. Kindle Unlimited provides access to over 2 million titles, making it the perfect companion for slow days.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen)

The 2nd Gen’s Active Noise Cancellation is a game changer. It transforms your surroundings, minimizing unwanted noise for uninterrupted calls and meetings. Adaptive Transparency strikes the perfect balance between awareness and serenity, allowing essential sounds while reducing background clamor. You can find your ideal fit with multiple ear tip options, ensuring comfort and optimal sound quality. Touch controls grant seamless command – adjust volume, control playback, manage calls, and toggle listening modes with simple gestures. Sweat and water resistance enhance durability, complemented by the MagSafe Charging Case’s practicality and up to 30 hours of total listening time. I found these to be essential when working in cafes and staying in coworking spaces.

Universal Travel Adapter

Kipston 4 in 1 Universal Travel Adapter

This compact adapter empowers you to charge 4 devices simultaneously. The universal AC outlet accommodates various plug types, catering to over 200 countries including Europe, Australia, and the UK. Embrace compatibility with USB A and USB C devices – from smartphones and tablets to laptops and cameras. Safety takes precedence with FCC CE ROHS certification, safety shutters, and an 8A Fuse to guard against overloads and short circuits. While it’s not a voltage converter, it’s the perfect safeguard for your devices during travel.

Laptop Stand

Roost Laptop Stand

Designed to fit all laptops, the Roost laptop stand is lightweight and sturdy. It boasts a collapsible design, perfect for on-the-go professionals and presentations. It’s universally compatible with PC and MacBook models, featuring rubber insets for secure placement. With 7 adjustable height options, you can enjoy eye-level laptop viewing, promoting ergonomic comfort. Among other options for laptop stands, this may be the most portable and lightest.

If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative, check out Nexstand . However, it’s only available in Canada as of the time of this writing.

Logitech MX Keys Mini Laptop Stand

I have a separate keyboard mostly for ergonomic reasons, and Logitech MX Keys Mini was the obvious choice when I was looking around. Its perfect stroke keys are designed for effortless precision, while intuitive features like voice-to-text dictation, mic mute/unmute, and emoji keys enhance your productivity. The compact layout ensures portability without compromising on performance. Smart illumination adapts to changing lighting conditions, and the backlit keys light up as your hands approach.

You can pair this keyboard with up to 3 devices across various operating systems via Bluetooth Low Energy, and switch seamlessly between them. Collaborate across multiple computers with ease and enjoy the convenience of USB-C rechargeability, lasting up to 10 days on a full charge. The MX Keys Mini is not only environmentally conscious with certified post-consumer recycled plastic but also carbon-neutral.

SAXX Underwear

Nothing can be more essential in your packing list than a set of good underwear. SAXX underwear are perfect for those who look for comfort and fashion in their everyday underwear. Made with a blend of 95% Viscose and 5% Elastane, these boxer briefs offer a super soft touch against your skin. The slim fit design is ideal for layering, making them versatile for various outfits and activities. With a no-fly design, roll waistband, and 5” seam, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort throughout the day.

The patented BallPark Pouch provides superior support, keeping your man-parts in place and minimizing friction with breathable mesh panels for chafe-free comfort. These boxer briefs are designed with Three-D Fit technology for ergonomic comfort and Flat Out Seams to prevent irritation.

Smartwool Unisex Adult Merino Sport Tee

What makes Smartwool standout is its remarkable odor-resistance, an important feature when you’re on the move and might not have immediate access to laundry facilities. Its temperature-regulating properties make it versatile for various climates – keeping you cool when the adventure heats up and providing warmth in chillier environments.

For travelers who prioritize packing light, this tee is a game-changer. Its lightweight and compact design make it easy to fit into any suitcase or backpack without taking up precious space. Additionally, the tee’s innovative design, aimed at minimizing chafing, ensures comfort during long journeys and activities.

Whether you’re exploring city streets or hitting the trails, the Smartwool Merino Sport 150 Tee is a reliable and versatile travel companion that combines performance and convenience.

Ray-Ban Classic Polarized Aviator Sunglasses

Upgrade your eyewear game with the Ray-Ban RB3025 Metal Aviator Sunglasses and Vision Group Accessories Bundle, a perfect fusion of style and functionality for year-round sophistication. These sunglasses offer a timeless appeal. The non-polarized lenses provide effective UV protection, ensuring your eyes stay shielded from harmful rays.

With the bundle, you’re not just getting stylish shades – it comes with added accessories to enhance your eyewear experience. The cloth pouch, lens cleaner spray, lens cleaning cloth, and glasses repair kit are thoughtful additions that contribute to the longevity of your eyewear.

Columbia Kestrel Trail Omni-Wick UPF 50 Shorts

These shorts are designed to keep you comfortable and protected, featuring ultra-wicking fabric and built-in UPF 50 sun protection. Whether you’re bouldering or rafting, you’ll enjoy ultimate freedom of movement thanks to the partial elastic waist and gusset detail. The side-elastic waistband and exterior adjustable waistband ensure a snug fit.

With zip-closed security pockets and cargo pockets featuring hook and loop closure, your essentials stay secure. Made from 100% nylon with a recycled polyester lining, these shorts are not only functional but also environmentally conscious.

Sea to Summit Portable Pocket Towel

This lightweight and portable towel easily fits into a jacket pocket, making it ideal for camping, hiking, gym trips, and more. Crafted from silky, durable microfiber fabric, it can absorb three times its weight in water, drying rapidly due to its high surface area. The press-stud tab ensures easy attachment to your pack or clothesline for quick drying.

Complete with a molded EVA storage case, this towel is available in various sizes to suit your needs.

Columbia Delta Ridge Down Jacket

This jacket combines the advantages of 650 fill power down insulation with a water-resistant exterior and Columbia’s Omni-HEAT™ reflective lining. Whether you’re exploring diverse climates or braving chilly winds, this jacket ensures comfort. The breathable thermal lining and meticulously heat-sealed design guarantee efficient heat retention. It also helps that it’s not as puffy as most puffer or down jackets, so it takes up less space.

Rain Jacket

Outdoor Research Helium Rain Jacket 

I’m a big hiker, so rain jackets are a must for me. Outdoor Research’s waterproof marvel combines durability and lightweight design, making it an ideal travel companion.

The Helium Rain Jacket boasts the innovative Diamond Fuse technology, rendering it 5x more tear-resistant than its predecessor, the Helium II, without compromising on weight. Seam-taped for complete waterproof protection yet breathable for comfort in rugged conditions, this jacket is a hiker’s dream.

Its versatile features, including a chest pocket that doubles as a stuff sack, adjustable hood, and carabiner loop, make it a must-pack for any outdoor enthusiast seeking top-notch protection.

THE NORTH FACE Class V Camp Hat

This hat offers sustainability and durability with its blend of recycled and nylon materials,. Its shallow-fit design ensures a snug yet comfortable fit, while the adjustable strap closure allows customization. The hat’s five-panel ball cap construction, combined with partially-recycled nylon fabric, guarantees resilient sun protection for your explorations.

With an interior sweatband featuring FlashDry fabric, you’ll stay cool and dry in the summer heat. Whether hiking, camping, or simply relaxing, this classic hat is a versatile addition to your travel attire.

Lululemon Men’s ABC Pant Classic 34L

These pants are great! They look good for a lot of occasions from travel to events where you need to dress up nice. The innovative ABC (anti-ball crushing) design ensures ample room for comfort, making long journeys or flights a breeze. Have I mentioned that these pants are almost wrinkle-free?

A hidden zippered pocket offers secure storage for essentials like a passport, enhancing convenience during travel. Flip up the cuffs to reveal reflective details, adding an element of safety in low-light conditions. With a streamlined fit that allows breathing room for glutes and thighs, these pants combine style, functionality, and comfort for any traveler.

Columbia Mens Tech Trail Knit Jogger 

For those days where I’m just out casually strolling the neighbourhood, I like to use joggers. It also works for long days of hiking. These joggers are designed to keep up with your active lifestyle while ensuring you stay fresh and dry. Experience long-lasting freshness as the joggers capture and neutralize odor. The elastic waist with a drawcord provides a customized fit, while zippered hand pockets and a security pocket keep your essentials safe. Crafted with Omni-Wick technology, these joggers pull moisture away from your body, allowing sweat to evaporate rapidly. The 4-way comfort stretch ensures unrestricted movement, making them ideal for hiking, sightseeing, or any on-the-go activity.

SAXX Swim Trunks

Designed for coastal adventures, these swim shorts offer more than meets the eye. Featuring the patented BallPark Pouch and DropTemp Cooling Hydro Liner, they provide ultimate support and cooling comfort. The quick-dry nylon shell is chlorine and salt water fade-resistant, making these shorts ideal for beach-to-brewery transitions.

The slim-fit liner ensures a form-fitting shape around the butt and thighs, while the BallPark Pouch keeps everything in place. With built-in DropTemp technology, these shorts help you stay cool by evaporating sweat.

Smartwool Socks

Smartwool socks are great for travel, offering a blend of functionality and coziness. The moisture-wicking merino wool material keeps your feet dry and comfortable. A crew length pair of socks provides extra warmth and protection, while the snug fit prevents bunching or slipping. With odor-resisting properties, you can stay fresh throughout your travels.

Birkenstock Arizona EVA

These sandals offer the iconic comfort of Birkenstock in a lightweight and flexible EVA material. It’s also available for women’s both in CA and US . Ideal for travel, they’re shock-absorbing, waterproof, and gentle on your skin. Whether you’re strolling on the beach, exploring the garden, hitting the gym, or relaxing post-workout, these sandals offer both style and functionality.

With the two-strap design, you can wear socks with it (haters gonna hate) making it ideal for chilly mornings when camping. The anatomically shaped Birkenstock footbed ensures superior comfort. With individually adjustable pin buckles and easy-to-clean, one-piece molded EVA construction, these Arizona sandals are a must-pack item for your next adventure whether it’s camping or to the beach.

New Balance Men’s Fresh Foam X 1080 V12 Running Shoe

The 1080 is not just any running shoe; it’s the ultimate choice for versatility. Whether you’re exploring a new city or fitting in a workout during your trip, the 1080 offers top-notch performance. It’s designed to accommodate every type of traveler, from those chasing personal bests to those just wanting to stay at a leisurely pace.

This shoe is well known for its midsole cushioning that ensures smooth transitions and flexibility, making it perfect for on-the-go adventures. The engineered Hypoknit upper offers a supportive fit, ensuring comfort throughout your explorations.

Crystal Body Deodorant Travel Size

Say goodbye to harmful chemicals with its paraben and aluminum-free formula. Crafted with care, this stick deodorant ensures worry-free use. Simply moisten the top and apply generously for a clean, natural feel. With no aluminum chlorohydrate, aluminum zirconium, parabens, or phthalates, it’s perfect for all skin types.

Grooming kit

Manicure/Pedicure Set (German-made)

This comprehensive set includes all the essentials you need: fingernail clippers, toenail clippers, tweezers, nail scissors, cuticle scissors, and a sapphire nail file with coarse and fine sides – all nestled in a soft leather manicure case. The convenient leather case is designed for easy portability, fitting snugly in handbags or shoulder bags for on-the-go touch-ups.

These high-quality, handmade tools are nickel-plated for lasting use.

Reusable Travel Bottles

HumanGear GoToob+Travel Storage Container

With a 25% larger opening, these TSA-approved containers make filling and cleaning effortless. The soft, squeezable design ensures quick dispensing, and the no-drip silicone valve keeps caps clean. The LoopLock feature prevents accidental leaks and allows attachment to bags. These FDA-approved containers are perfect for toiletries, from shampoo to toothpaste.

Humangear revolutionized silicone bottles, and the GoToob+ sets a new standard. It retains loved features like leakproof valves and adds new ones, including the almost impossible-to-open LoopLock. Choose the trusted original – premium silicone, US-based manufacturer, and a lifetime warranty.

Banana Boat Sport Ultra SPF 30 Sunscreen Lotion, 3oz

With superior endurance against sweat and water, it stays on so you can keep playing. Clinically proven SPF 30 UVA/UVB protection shields your skin from harmful rays. This lightweight, oil-free formula offers non-greasy comfort, perfect for travel. Water and sweat-resistant for up to 80 minutes, it’s your high-performance sunscreen for active days. Plus, it’s free from oxybenzone and octinoxate, ensuring a safe experience.

Natrapel 6-Hour Mosquito, Tick and Insect Repellent Pump Spray

This DEET-free formula, powered by natural plant-based Lemon Eucalyptus, offers up to 6 hours of protection. Enjoy a refreshing scent while staying bug-free. With an easy application pump spray, it’s simple to use. Its portable, airplane-friendly 37ml size makes it a perfect travel companion.

Jergens® Travel Size Ultra Care Moisturizer

With its deep moisturizing formula, it’s perfect for on-the-go hydration. Say goodbye to dryness and hello to soft, nourished skin. This moisturizer is clinically proven to repair and heal extra dry skin, making it your reliable companion for travel adventures. Its non-greasy feel and quick absorption mean you can apply it anytime, anywhere, without any fuss.

Aquaphor Lip Repair Lip Balm

You know those days where you move from airport to airport and the air dry? This is the solution. It provides relief from dryness and cracked lips with its proven formula that seals in moisture and prevents dryness. Enriched with nourishing vitamins, Shea Butter, and soothing Chamomile essence, it’s specially designed for sensitive lips.

This lip balm is a game-changer, providing instant results upon application. It outperforms other brands, offering superior hydration without stickiness. Plus, it’s fragrance-free, making it suitable for the whole family, even kids. The US-version goes the extra mile with SPF 30 sun protection, perfect for your travel adventures.

Quip Electric Toothbrush

Accepted by the ADA, this toothbrush is designed to remove plaque, prevent gingivitis, and reduce it. With sensitive sonic vibrations, a built-in 2-minute timer, and 30-second pulses, it ensures effective brushing. The convenience of a 3-month charge from the AAA battery inside makes it travel-friendly.

The multi-use travel cover is a standout feature, easily mounting to mirrors, glass, or tile and covering the bristles for on-the-go hygiene. Its sleek, sustainable design includes a slim metal handle and replaceable soft brush head, all aligned with a mission for affordable, enjoyable oral care.

Shampoo Bar

J·R·LIGGETT’S All-Natural Shampoo Bar

These bars gently remove built-up sebum, promoting a radiant shine without greasiness. Perfect for all hair and skin types, they’re ideal for travelers seeking simplicity. With a mild clean scent derived from essential oils, they’re allergy-friendly.

The blend of rich oils like Olive, Coconut, and Castor Oil nourishes hair with antioxidants and Vitamins A, B, and E, rejuvenating dull locks. This all-natural, handmade formula is mild yet effective, perfect for permed, colored, and naturally curly hair, offering long-lasting protection without synthetic chemicals.

Experience the tradition of handmade excellence from Cornish, NH, making J.R.LIGGETT’S shampoo bars your trusted travel companion.

FlatPak Soap Bar Case

This leak-proof case with Dry-Through Technology keeps your soap mess-free while allowing it to dry through the material, preventing mushiness. Three times lighter and six times more compact than plastic cases, it’s perfect for travel. The Hypalon rolltop closure and YKK buckle ensure secure storage.

Its flexible fabric design adapts to soap bar size, fitting standard bars up to 4 x 2.4 x 1.3 inches. TSA approved, the FlatPak Soap Bar Case is your compact, durable, and clean solution for soap on the go.

X3 Clean Germ Attack Foaming Hand Sanitizer

This alcohol-free sanitizer effectively kills germs and bacteria without the use of harmful chemicals. It’s non-toxic, non-flammable, and non-corrosive, ensuring safety for you and your surroundings. Stay protected with a fragrance-free formula that moisturizes your skin without leaving a sticky residue. The convenient 73ml travel size is perfect for keeping your hands clean on the go.

Water Bottle

Hydrapak Stash – Collapsible BPA & PVC Free Water Bottle

This ingenious bottle is designed to maximize your pack space while providing you with a reliable hydration solution. Expand it when you need it, and collapse it down to just a quarter of its size for effortless storage. Weighing 50% less than traditional hard bottles, it’s a game-changer for travelers, backpackers, and adventurers on the go.

Crafted from tough TPU material, the Stash Bottle is abrasion-resistant and built to withstand any adventure. Plus, it’s 100% BPA and PVC-free, ensuring a clean and refreshing drink every time. It also has a beyond-lifetime warranty, so you know that you can take it with you where ever you go.

Water Purifier

SteriPEN Ultralight UV Water Purifier 

This pocket-sized wonder ensures you have clean water wherever your adventure takes you. Compact and portable, it’s a must-pack item for your carry-on, backpack, or emergency kit. It’s saves a lot of money especially if you plan to travel to Asia where tap water is not safe to drink.

With its USB-rechargeable battery, you can easily power up from various sources. Just immerse the lamp, stir, and let the shortwave ultraviolet light work its magic by rendering harmful microbes powerless. The LED indicator keeps you informed about purification status and battery level. Treating 1L of water takes only about 90 seconds, and each UV lamp can provide around 8000 treatments.

Assembling the ideal packing list is a combination of both skill and experience, refined over time through practical experience and careful consideration. Each item on this list has been important in my travels, but feel free to change it up depending on how you travel.

Your packing list should not only address your practical requirements but also resonate with your personal sense of adventure. I hope you found this guide useful in preparing you for next trip. Here’s to safe and rewarding travels!

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Home > General Travel > Men's Minimalist Packing List

56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)

The sixth update of the 56-item packing list of minimimalist travel essentials for men that I've been fine-tuning for over a decade.

A Man is Judged by the Size of His Bag

In The Devil Wears Prada , Meryl Streep's character said, "You can always judge a woman by her bag." (…Probably. I never watched the movie.) I don't know about her general advice, but if she'd been talking about a traveler, she'd have been spot on.

You are what you pack.

A man with an enormous bag? Overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That's a happy camper who knows what's up.

And since you're reading this blog, you probably want to be the latter. So, without further ado, here's my go-to minimalist packing list for men that I've been perfecting for over a decade.

Minimalist Men's Travel Essentials Packing List

Big picture.

Because minimalist men always look at the big picture first. Click any to jump straight to it.

• 6 Bags – 2.3 lb
• 18 Clothes  – 8.4 lb
• 2 Shoes  – 1.5 lb
• 12 Electronic s – 5.5 lb
• 8 Toiletries – 0.5 lb
• 10 Miscellaneous – 0.8 lb
• Only Pack if Really Necessary

DO NOT Pack

TOTAL: 56 items, 19.5 lb

An Honest Packing List

As proof to you that my recommendations are legitimate and not money-grabbing affiliate links, I've included photos of me using my packing list items everywhere possible.

6 items, 2.3 lbs / 1.1 kg

• 1 laundry bag
• 3 ziploc bags

1.9 lb / 878 g

Ideal Specs:

• 32 liters or less
• Side water bottle pockets
• Reasonably lightweight but durable
• Easy-access front pocket
• Zippers with holes in them you can put a lock through
• Washing machine friendly
• Chest buckle but no bulky waist strap
• Laptop sleeve.

Recommendation:

After nine wonderful years, my trusty old Patagonia Fuego backpack got so decrepit that even Patagonia's repair team told me there was nothing they could do about it.

So I went hunting for a replacement?a modern upgrade to my old bag. I tell the story of the ups and downs of how I chose my backpack here .

To cut to the chase, I ended up with an Osprey Nebula .

We've only been together for two months, so maybe I'm still in the honeymoon phase, but so far I'm smitten. It has everything my old backpack had, but fresher and slightly better arranged. Its multitude of pockets is far from "minimalistic," but I find this makes it easier to manage all the items I pack.

8.2 oz / 232 g

I pack a super lightweight bag for carrying stuff around during the day.

Messenger bags are the best for this. Unlike backpacks, I don't need to take them off to get into them and I can swing them in front of me when in crowded pickpocket-prone places.

Recommendation: 

My 15L Patagonia Travel Courier conveniently stuffs into a little pouch that fits right in the front pocket of my backpack.

I like that it has a couple of water bottle holders (which I also often use as a quick-access pocket for my phone), a couple of secure zipped compartments, and an easily adjustable, comfortable shoulder strap.

Update: Patagonia no longer makes this bag. No other reputable company makes anything similar, either. For a replacement, I'd go back to what I used to have: an even lighter-weight sling like this one . Alternatively, I may get this inexpensive courier bag from Decathlon that Taylor recommended in the comments.

1 Laundry Bag

0.4 oz / 10 g

To separate your dirty laundry from clean clothes.

Any plastic bag will do, but you can get some fancy synthetic fabric bag if you have money to burn.

3 Ziploc Bags

1.2 oz / 36 g

• One for electronics. Put your little cords and Kindle and phone in a Ziploc bag. Even double-bag to avoid disaster.
• One for toiletries. Forget fancy toiletry bags.
• One for anything else. Like snacks, for example.

18 items, 8.4 lb / 3.8 kg

• 1 pair of pants
• 1 pair of nice shorts
• 2 sports shorts
• 2 pairs of socks
• 2 pairs of underwear
• 1 button-up
• 1 long-sleeved layer
• 1 sweatshirt
• 1 waterproof shell

Maximum Flexibility for Minimalist Packing

A minimalist packing list requires maximum flexibility, so I ensure every piece of clothing matches with the others. I also always choose easy-to-wash, difficult-to-stain, and quick-to-dry fabrics? especially merino wool ?over cotton.

1 Pair of Pants

1 lb / 459 g

• Look somewhat dressy, so they can be worn on many occasions, but still feel sporty and comfortable
• Deep pockets so things don't fall out of them in buses and cars
• Quick-dry fabric (not cotton)
• Drawstring (so no need for a belt)

Lululemon ABC Pants  look like khakis but are super stretchy and comfortable. The fabric is quick-drying and easy to maintain. The only knock on them is they don't have a drawstring, so be sure to get a perfect-fitting waist.

I wore them just about every day during our six months in Colombia   on everything from hikes to fancy dinners and they did the job perfectly .

1 Pair of Everyday Shorts

8.8 oz / 250 g

• Versatile enough to be able to wear out to restaurants but also on active excursions
• Drawstring (to avoid the extra weight of a belt)
• Deep pockets (protection from pickpockets and inadvertent escape of valuables)

My have exceeded my high expectations for them (even given their high?$125!?price) since I got them in May 2019.

And, most importantly, Kim loves them too! Unlike my previous go-to travel shorts, she has no problem with me wearing these out to dinner and other events where I need to be "presentable." So I wear them all the time.

For more about what I like (and don't like) about these shorts, see my in-depth review, Outlier New Way Shorts: Overhyped, Imperfect, and Awesome , and my 3 favorite men's shorts for travel, sports, style, and comfort .

2 Pairs of Sport Shorts

17 oz / 490 g

• Big front pockets that can safely hold your phone.
• Zipper pocket to hold cash, cards, and keys.
• At least one black pair, so it can double as a backup pair of regular shorts.
• Long enough so they can double as regular walking-around shorts.

Lululemon's Pace Breaker Shorts  are, simply put, my favorite sports shorts ever .

I've tried similar pairs from Patagonia, Nike, Adidas, New Balance, and more, but none have supplanted the Pace Breakers from their title.

Lululemon stands by their stuff, too. I brought in one 5-year-old pair that had seriously faded and they simply swapped it for a new one.

2 Pairs of Socks

2.8 oz / 80 g

• Black ankle socks
• Wool for less smelliness

My sister got me a couple of pairs of Darn Tough ankle socks for my birthday and I don't think I'll ever buy other socks again.

I'm so happy with them that they inspired a whole blog post on How to Pick Gifts Even Better than Santa: 8 Unconventional Tips .

Not only are these socks darn tough (they have a lifetime guarantee) but they're darn comfortable and darn stink resistant.

2 Pairs of Underwear

5.6 oz / 160 g

• A fly, or whatever the hole pulling your pecker out of is called.
• Extra, super, duper quick-dry material. You'll want to wash these with you in the shower, so they need to dry quickly.

Icebreaker Anatomica Boxers. My go-to used to be Tilley Travel Boxer Briefs, which are almost equally fantastic, but the Icebreaker's 83% merino wool provides better insulation and odor-fighting than Tilley's 100% polyester.

I like both pairs better than the MeUndies, ExOfficio, Saxx, Patagonia, and Under Armour pairs I've also tried.

10.6 oz / 300 g

Up until 2018, I was happy with plain 100% polyester singlets. They packed light and stayed reasonably cool.

Then I got a merino wool tank from the Icebreaker shop at the outlet mall. It's lighter, cooler, and way less smelly. And by less smelly, I mean even when it gets drenched with sweat from a workout, it hardly smells after it dries. So I barely wear my old synthetic singlets anymore.

My slight preference is for my Unbound merino tank (discontinued) I got in 2019 because it's softer, though a bit heavier (which looks nicer but isn't as cooling). Of the other brands I have, I prefer the Smartwool tanks over Icebreaker's Anatomica tanks .

1 Plain T-Shirt

5.7 oz / 162 g

Recommendation(s):

The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee .

I had no problems with my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere merino t-shirts (still don't), but Outlier offered me one so I said why not. Maybe I'd love it as much as I do their shorts . If not, I'd give it to my brother, who was visiting us in Cape Town .

Well, as you can see in the photo above, I'm wearing the shirt and my brother isn't.

The Outlier tee's heavier than Icebreaker's, but it's noticeably softer too and still insulating enough to keep me cool in here in the South African summer. I instinctively put it on instead of my Icebreaker ones, so I guess I like it more.

November 2022 Update: I put my money where my mouth is and bought a couple more Outlier t-shirts?this time in darker colors so that they don't show sweat stains and other marks as much.

1 Button-Up Collared Shirt

• Lightweight, so it can double as a beach shirt that protects you from the sun
• Chest pocket, which is handy for boarding passes
• Wrinkle resistant

The Wool&Prince wool-linen button-down shirt .

It has the relaxed, casual look of a linen shirt with the odor-fighting and stain-repelling benefits of merino wool. This makes it perfect for travel, especially to the warm-weather places Kim and I prefer to visit.

?nearly perfect.

While the linen gives the shirt a cooler look and feel than pure merino, it also makes the shirt more wrinkle-prone. But not so wrinkly my wife won't let me wear it. And not nearly as wrinkly as the 100% linen shirts I own, which I never end up wearing because I rather not go out than have to iron a shirt.

1 Long-Sleeved Layer

7.9 oz / 225 g

• Lightweight but warm.
• Not too sporty-looking, so it can be worn around the city without looking like a granola outdoors-enthusiast who's trying to signal how adventurous they are.
• Snug enough to be a mid or base layer, but not so snug that it suffocates my torso.

I've gone through a lot of these shirts, from Costco brand to Patagonia. (I actually liked the Costco brand one more.)

As of October 2020, I've been experimenting with something different: an alpaca wool base layer from Arms of Andes .

The team there read my post on merino wool's pros and cons , contacted me to tell me alpaca's better, then sent me the shirt to prove it.

So far, so intriguing.

The shirt is incredibly warm for its weight; I've been comfortable wearing just it and a t-shirt this fall in 10?C/50?F temperatures. And I've yet to wash it (as of Nov 2022!) despite wearing it for dozens of outdoor workouts . I probably should wash it, but it's annoyingly hand-wash-only, so I just air it out in the sun, which seems to be good enough.

The fabric feels nearly as soft as cashmere, but it also has the same slightly scratchy feel on bare skin (which good merino wool doesn't have).

1 Sweatshirt

15.5 oz / 439 g

• Black or grey for easy matching and stain resistance
• Zip-up front for better climate control
• A hood for extra warmth and to cover up messy hair

I don't know anymore.

In the photo above, I'm probably on my phone researching the best hoodies out there.

I like the performance and zip pockets of my Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie , but hate its stupid-looking and uncomfortable scuba-style hood, so I wouldn't buy it again.

Whenever it falls apart, I figure out how to make enough money off this blog to not feel bad about replacing a perfectly good sweatshirt with a new-er one, or I convince Unbound to give me one for free, I'll replace it with their compact travel hoodie .

1 Lightweight Jacket

12.8 oz / 362 g

• Zipper pockets
• Inner chest pocket
• Water-resistant
• Packable into a pouch

Patagonia's Nano Puff Jacket  because it exactly meets every one of my criteria.

Kim liked mine so much, she got herself one and now considers it one of her 15 top travel essentials .

1 Waterproof Shell

13 oz / 371 g

• Waterproof (This may sound obvious, but many a dumbass has bought a water-resistant shell thinking it's waterproof)
• Zip-up front
• At least one outside pocket

This type of jacket is a dime-a-dozen. Go with REI or MEC or some other reputable outdoor brand that stands behind their product quality. Or go to an outlet mall. That's where I found a good deal on my Lululemon waterproof jacket , which is doing the job for me.

2 oz / 60 g

Get a hat you don't mind squashing in the bottom of your bag, not some pristine New Era cap with the sticker still on it.

If you're going somewhere cold, pack a knitted cap instead of a baseball hat.

In October 2020, I said sayonara to the weathered red trucker cap with my brother's business on the front and got something more technical: Lululemon's Fast and Free Run Hat Elite .

Yeah, "Elite."

I don't need an "elite" hat for my travel purposes. But its lightweight, easy-care, and inconspicuousness do the trick for me.

I also considered a cap from Ciele . A lot of people love them but I refuse to pay a premium price let them plaster their brand name in giant letters atop my forehead.

6 oz / 171 g

Get a lightweight, quick-dry (not cotton!) towel. This is the rare item of which you don't want to get the smallest size possible. It should be big enough to wrap around your waist.

These towels serve the additional purpose of being beach blankets, and you can tuck them under your hat too for Arab-style neck and shoulder protection.

The large-sized PackTowl from MEC has served me well for longer than I can remember. (Or, better put, longer than I've been keeping track of everything with my lifelogging practice.)

2 items, 2.0 lb / 0.9 kg

• 1 pair of sandals
• 1 pair of runners

1 Pair of Sandals

13 oz / 374 g

• Durable, so the strap doesn't fall apart when you're in the middle of nowhere. This seems to happen to some friend of mine and their Havaianas every other trip.
• Not stinky. Constant exposure to sweaty bare feet can make cheap sandals a noxious threat to everything else you pack with them in your bag or to a whole room when you take them off.
• Comfortable enough to be able to walk in all day long without forming blisters or rashes.
• Good for my feet.

Most of you reading this will not like my recommendation. It's not stylish nor particularly practical. But it makes up for it in terms of functionality.

My recommendation:

Shamma's performance sandals .

Since I got my Maximus sandals in October 2022, they're the only shoe I've worn?for hiking, running, errands, and even going out for dinner, though Kim wasn't happy with that style choice.

They're easily my favorite purchase of the year.

I used to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals, but they go beyond minimalist into the realm of flimsiness. They'd hurt my knees when walking on cement, especially when lugging around my 1.5-year-old son. I also could never get the straps just right and they were never comfortable.

These Shammas have none of those problems. They're comfortable, have easy-to-adjust straps, and have a thick enough sole to pad my joints for city strolling.

The downsides are the straps look Jesus-hippy-esque and you can't slip them on hands-free like regular flip-flops. But Katy Bowman convinced me in her book, Move Your DNA , that flip-flops can mess up your feet, so I suck it up, bend over to put them on, and look kind of stupid.

I got the plain black version because that's all I could find in Vancouver, Canada. If I were in the US, I'd get one of their brown leather models, which Kim says don't look so bad.

1 Pair of Running Shoes

1.2 lb / 194 g

• Black, so they don't show dirt and can be worn in cities with pants without looking too stupid.
• Super lightweight. You should be able the easily bend them in half.
• Zero drop (i.e., no elevation of the ankles relative to the toes).

The above photos are of Lems Primal 2s . I've gone through two pairs over the past three years. They're a solid alternative to the fancier, pricier, and more popular Vivobarefoot Primus shoes that Kim wears .

But the soles are a bit too thin for some of the jumping and baby-carrying I do on unforgiving surfaces, so my newest and yet-to-be-fully-tested?or even photographed?addition to this packing list is a pair of thicker-soled Lems Primal Zen shoes .

Given my positive experience with the Primal 2s, I'm feeling pretty confident?"zen," even??that these new Zens will work out great.

Electronics

13 items, 5.5 lb / 2.5 kg.

• Laptop with case and charger
• Cell phone and case
• Extension cord
• USB charging cube

Laptop With Case And Charger

3.9 lb / 1785 g

I've got a Macbook, but I won't begrudge you if you prefer non-Apple products.

Cell Phone & Case

6.3 oz / 180 g

Get a ghetto case to diminish thieves' desire to steal it, but that's good enough to diminish the risk of cracking your phone's screen if you drop it.

Recommendation

Speck Presidio cases .

I had the same Speck case for over four years, and just replaced it this December. The new one costed something around $25, but I got the previous at Winners for $9.99.

Over the course of the four years I had it, the extraneous bits broke off (in true minimalist fashion), but it held my phone together. My screen has yet to crack (knock on wood) despite having dropped my phone dozens of times.

Don't cheap out on getting a local SIM wherever you go.

It's happened to me twice where I've gone to a country, decided against getting a SIM, put my phone on airplane mode, lost it, and couldn't find it because Find My iPhone doesn't work in airplane mode. I'm a slow learner, but now the first thing I do when I arrive in a foreign country is get a local SIM card. Do the same, no matter how cheap you are or disconnected you want to be.

E-Reader & Case

8 oz / 230 g

If you don't have a Kindle (or another brand of e-reader), get one already.

Don't bring your Kindle charger, though. Just bring a tiny USB to micro USB cord you can plug into your computer.

The Kindle Paperwhite . It's less than half the price ($120) of the newer Oasis model ($250) but has absolutely everything you'd ever need: enough storage to hold thousands of books, multiple-week-long battery life, super lightweight and durable, and a backlight for reading at night without bothering others.

An Extension Cord (My Secret Weapon)

9 oz / 250 g

You might think an extension cord is unnecessary, especially for a so-called minimalist packing list. Maybe you're right because I don't know if I've ever seen anyone else who packs one. But just because nobody else does it doesn't mean it's wrong. I'd argue the opposite.

I use my extension cord just about every day, everywhere I go. Not only does it allow me to reach distant plugs in airports, bus stations, and poorly designed hotel rooms, but it also doubles or triples the number of power outlets. It can be used as a clothesline or a rope in a pinch too.

Get a standard 12-foot cord , but make sure it is two-pronged, not three, so you can easily attach adaptors to it.

USB Wall Charging Cube

0.9 oz / 25 g

This you can use to charge your phone, headphones, and e-reader.

0.3 oz / 10 g

Your phone, computer, and Kindle can handle voltages from any country, so you just need a cheap dollar store adaptor.

You only need one adaptor if you get an extension cord with multiple sockets at the end of it.

Wireless Headphones

• Water-resistant enough not to get damaged from my excessively sweaty ears.
• Fit well enough not to fall out when doing handstands and jumping exercises.

Recommendation : 

After 5 happy years with Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones , their microphone stopped working so I decided to try something new: the Apple AirPods Pro .

Enough people rave about them online already, so I'll spare you that. I don't even care much for the noise cancellation mode. I just care that they stay in my ears, have long enough batteries, and are durable. It's been 3 months and they've held up well so far. Give me another year before I join the choir of fanboys.

8 items, 0.5 lb / 0.2 kg

• Toothbrush, toothpaste, and floss
• Razor and shaving cream
• Toilet paper

Travel-Sized Toothbrush, Toothpaste, and Floss

1.7 oz / 51 g total

If you don't floss, start. "One less thing to pack," is not an excuse.

Razor and Shaving Cream

2.4 oz / 70 g total

You lucky guys who can grow luscious full beards might not need this one and the next.

For splinters, in-growns, and whatever else is in you but shouldn't be.

One great tip from a reader is to bring the extra small ones from a Swiss Army knife. You can buy them individually at MEC in Canada for just $2.50 . I imagine you can find the same at similar outdoor stores like REI in other countries.

1.8 oz / 50 g

I went on a bit of a rant against sunscreen in our post on clich? travel tips and what to do instead , but you should still bring some.

Even if you're going to the UK, be optimistic. Just keep the bottle under 100 ml. so you can fly with it.

Toilet Paper In A Small Ziploc

1.1 oz / 30 g

Take out the tube. Always have some on you just in case.

Miscellaneous

10 items, 0.8 lb / 0.4 kg.

• Zipper lock
• Drivers license
• 2 Credit cards
• Travel insurance contact info
• 100 to 300 USD
• Water bottle

1 Zipper Lock

2.1 oz / 60 g

When I'm on an overnight bus or leaving my bag in the luggage storage at a hotel, having my zipper locked gives me a bit of peace of mind. Sure it can be cut, but a thief's likely to go to the next, unlocked bag instead.

I prefer locks with a flexible band, like these MasterLock ones that are around $12 for two.

1.3 oz / 38 g

I don't bother taking a printed copy but I do have a digital copy saved on my Google Drive.

Drivers License

0.2 oz / 5 g

For ID and for renting cars, if necessary.

2 Credit Cards

0.1 oz / 3 g

Take two because there's always the chance one gets canceled or lost or doesn't work with a certain ATM.

If you're a fellow Canadian, save yourself a bunch of money by getting one of the credit cards from my Best Canadian Credit Cards for International Travel post.

Travel Insurance Contact Card

0.1 oz / 2 g

I never thought of carrying a printed card with my travel insurer's contact info until a few of the travel insurance industry insiders I interviewed for my guide on how to buy the best travel insurance told me to.

If something bad happens, I need to call my insurer ASAP. If not, there's a risk I could have to pay a portion of the charges.

And if I'm too hurt to contact them, the hospital needs to know who's paying. Some foreign hospitals turn back injured travelers who don't have proof of insurance.

100-300 USD

0.4 oz / 11 g

I hope you don't mind me counting this as one item in my packing list, not three-hundred.

Always have cash as a backup. Keep it separated in two different hiding spots within your stuff. I often hide some in my rolled-up socks.

0.3 oz / 8 g

For filling customs forms and writing letters to put into bottles.

1 Carabiner

0.5 oz / 15 g

For attaching stuff (dirty wet clothes, shoes, water bottle) to the outside of your bag.

1 Water Bottle

6.7 oz / 189 g

Ideal Spec:

• Has a loop so you can attach it to your bag. If you don't fasten your water bottle to your bag while on the move, you're guaranteed to lose it at some point.

After years of not having a water bottle worth recommending for my minimalist packing list, I now have one:

The CamelBak Chute .

I immediately fell for it?so hard that it's already on my shortlist of favorite things I'd immediately buy again . As I wrote in that post:

The spout is the ideal size for chugging from when I?m super thirsty; the handy magnet keeps the cap from hitting my face when I?m drinking; and the size is perfect for backpack side pockets and car cup holders.

And, unlike many other things on my packing list, it's inexpensive. The only small downside is the "loop" isn't flexible like on a Nalgene, but hard plastic. I don't mind much, but Kim always points it out to me.

Only If Really Necessary

Bar of soap.

You can almost always get by using soaps and shampoos in the bathrooms on the road, but if you really don't want to risk it I particularly like my shampoo bar , which lasts forever and creates tons of suds for a complete head-to-toe wash.

I've managed to survive a lifetime without sunglasses ( Update: I now wear cheap ones to protect my eyes from sand when playing beach volleyball). If you insist, just make sure to get good ones with UV protection.

This is something I would normally buy on location, since it can be hard to predict whether bug spray will be needed or not.

Reader Suggestions

I don't pack the following but other readers do. Here are some small additional items to consider:

• Toothpick from a Swiss Army Knife. You can't take the knife if you're not checking a bag, but reader Barry swears by the toothpick. You can buy one for $1 at MEC in Canada or, I imagine, REI in the US or whatever the outdoor store is in your country.
• A small instrument. A little plastic flute like this one  or a harmonica. As the reader writes, "This will drive you crazy (and make you dizzy) for two weeks till you figure out how to play it, but once you do you can have a lot of joy." It's a great idea.
• A couple of USB flash drives.  These can be lifesavers if you're unable to back up your data to the cloud.

❌  A Big Wallet

Just carry a couple cards and maybe a money clip. You probably won't need your Costco card where you're going, so you don't need anything more than that.

❌  A Bathing Suit

Your sport shorts double as your bathing suit.

Sorry, Speedo lovers, but your banana hammock stays home.

❌  Zip-Off Pant/Shorts

I'm fine with making sacrifices to have a true minimalist packing list, but zip-off pant/shorts is taking it too far.

❌  Snacks

This may sound radical. It sure was radical to me. But now I believe in it and preach it far and wide.

You don't need snacks. Ever. So don't carry them. Not only does it lessen your load, but it may also reduce your jet lag .

It doesn't matter how long you're traveling. You can go days without food and without suffering. Before you dismiss this as insanity, read my fasting FAQ and tips and the story of my first three-day fast . It was enough to get Kim's parents to try it. Maybe it'll do the same for you.

Take a Load Off

Altogether, this minimalist packing list for men contains 56 items and weighs in at only 8.8 kg or 19.2 lb. And unless you're traveling around butt naked, you'll be typically wearing a good 5 lbs of that, so it'll weigh closer to 14 lb.

Everything fits into one small, nondescript, and easy-to-carry backpack. You won't have to roll your clothes to get them to fit in your bag, you won't be missing anything, and you'll be shaking your head every time you see a poor sucker with a needlessly giant bag.

Before You Pack Up and Leave…

What are your favorite items you'd have on your own minimalist packing list?

Do you think I missed anything or included something unnecessary?

Contribute in the comments  below.

Read This Next:

How to Travel To Change Who You Are

Long-Term Travel Packing List for Women: A Not-Too-Long List

Travel Essentials for Women: 15 Favorites to Never Forget

Update history.

I continuously update my minimalist packing list as new products and new technologies emerge and as I discover different brands and alternatives.

Here's the tracking of what I've changed.

November 2022 Update:

• I replaced most important item of my entire packing list, my backpack! Out with my faithful 9-year-old Patagonia Paxat and in with my very-similar-but-certainly-an-upgrade Osprey Nebula . Here's hoping this new relationship lasts just as long as my previous one.
• Since my Xero Cloud barefoot sandals provide no protection when walking on cement, I replaced them with so-far-so-amazing Shamma Maximuses .
• My J. Crew cotton hoodie wore out, so I replaced it with a technically-superior but comfort-ly-inferior Icebreaker Quantum II hoodie that, due to it's dumb hood, I will eventually replace with Unbound merino's compact travel hoodie .
• The MEC Aquanator Jacket that kept me dry since 2006 died of old age, so I replaced it with a Lululemon waterproof jacket .
• Someone stole my Oura Ring and I've decided not to replace it because A) It's expensive for a low-paid blogger like me and B) Thanks to what I've learned from the ring I now have a pretty good intuitive sense of how well I sleep and what factors help and hurt me. Plus, the new model has a monthly pricing plan which I refuse to support.

December 2020 Update:

• My third pair of Plantronics BackBeat FIT headphones bit the dust, so I decided to bite the bullet and try something new for the first time in 5 years with the AirPods Pro.
• I flip-flopped on my vow of eternal devotion to Crocs Swiftwater Flips and have mostly replaced them with less comfortable, less attractive, and less easy to wear Xero Cloud barefoot sandals. They're better for my feet and for intense exercise.
• The Unbound merino tank has usurped one of my Icebreaker Anatomica tanks .
• I replaced my quick-to-stink Patagonia Men's Capilene Zip-Neck with an Arms of Andes alpaca wool base layer in October, and I've yet to have to wash it despite heavy use in Vancouver's fall weather.
• My bit the dust. Or maybe too many moths bit it. Whatever the case, it had too many holes and frays after 3 years of heavy use so Kim made me throw it away. Until I find something better, I'm lounging in a regular cotton J. Crew hoodie.

February 2020 Update:

• The Outlier Ultrafine Merino Tee has proven itself to be finer than my Icebreaker Cool-Lite Sphere t-shirts.
• The Lems Primal 2 minimalist shoes have replaced my old New Balance 20v7 Minimus Trainers .
• After never having had a water bottle worth recommending, I discovered the CamelBak Chute , which I not only added to this list but also on the shortlist of my favorite things I'd immediately buy again.

July 2019 Update:

• My Venture Trek Tech shorts from Tilley had a great 10-year run, but have been replaced by my Outlier New Ways.
• My Patagonia Anatomic Sling bit the dust after 4 repairs and 7 years, so I replaced it with a Patagonia Travel Courier.
• Wool&Prince's wool-linen button-down shirt easily unseated the old linen shirt I got from a boutique in Sri Lanka and has now become my go-to here in Valencia, Spain.

May 2019 Update:

• Instead of any old pair of socks, I'm now all about Darn Tough.
• My Icebreaker Anatomica boxers have taken the title from my Tilleys for best underwear.
• My Lululemon t-shirts have been usurped in preference by my Icebreaker ones.

December 2018 Update:

• I now wear an Oura Ring sleep tracker everywhere I go, so it's earned its way onto the list along with its little charger.
• The Nike Free 5.0+ shoes have been kicked to the curb in favor of some even lighter, more comfortable, and, hopefully, more durable New Balance 20v7s.
• A technical merino tank top from Icebreaker has replaced the polyester ones I used to use.
• The Arcteryx Cover Cardigan's been swapped out for an Icebreaker hoodie.

Disclosure: Whenever possible, we use links that earn us a cut if you pay for stuff we recommend. It costs you nothing, so we'd be crazy not to. Read our affiliate policy .

31 thoughts on “56 Travel Essentials for Minimalist Men (Packing List v. 6.0)”

A good thing to attach to your bag is a Bluetooth tracker like Tile or Chipolo. In the event you misplace your bag, nearby you're able to ring it to make a sound and locate it on your phone.

The item is either to attach to your zipper or anywhere on your bag

That's a fantastic suggestion, Wes. Thanks! I hadn't heard of trackers like that, so I'm going to look into them right now…

Good list for general travel! I would appreciate if you stress this aspect from the start of the article.

"A man with an enormous bag is overcautious, inexperienced, and indecisive. And probably sweaty.

A man who can go for months with just a daypack? That’s a happy camper who knows what’s up." – This feels misleading.

If you were to go on a 1-2 week hike (or even a few days)in Peru or Nepal for example and you have to camp and cook, you would need a lot more stuff. The equipment you recommend is top quality and damm expensive, that's where some of the "weight loss" comes from. Also I agree that fasting works, just that it's a big difference if you do it in a controlled way or if you are climbing cold mountains.

Hey Sandu. You're totally right. A man who shows up with just a daypack for a multi-day trek is going to end up being the opposite of a happy camper! It's easy to distinguish between a guy carrying a big bag full of camping stuff en-route to a hike and one who's heading to their luxury Airbnb while carrying a big bag full of unnecessary trinkets, shoes, and clothes though, don't you agree?

Hey. Agree… was just a little frustrated cause I read the article on phone and went through it all just to find that there is no camping equipment included 🙂 Guess it was more about expectations, other than that it is a really good list!

What’s your thoughts on deodorant…no seriously. I’ve found that using deodorant gets on the inside of my Icebreaker shirts and gives bacteria a place to live. The armpits start to smell after 2-3 times of wearing them.

Hey Tim. I've found the exact same, which is why I don't pack deodorant. On average I've experienced that not using deodorant keeps me less stinky… but there are still some seemingly random times when my pits explode with B.O.

For that reason, when I'm not traveling and going to some social event, I sometimes apply deodorant to "keep me covered" for a few hours, even though I know later in the night, hopefully after I'm home, it'll probably make me smell worse.

You forgot deodorant. Or don't use any?

Hey Emilio, Yeah I don't pack it when I'm packing light. See my response to the previous comment for my take on deodorant.

Hey Chris, I was looking to get a good packable backpack for my upcoming trip to Thailand and found this backpack https://the-most-functional-packable.kckb.st/96ac29dc on Indiegogo. What do you think about it? Looks like a great backpack for travel, I was just looking for some opinions before I made my decision… By the way, I love the content you have been posting lately 🙂

Hey Nic. At 10oz/280g that bag's impressively light. I guess it'd take the place of the messenger bag day pack in my packing list. I prefer the messenger style in general because it's easier access than a backpack, but if you're going to hike a lot or carry heavy laptops and whatnot this style will be more comfortable. If you get it, keep us posted on what you think of it. Enjoy Thailand!

A lot of this is going to depend on where you are going, with who, and what activities you want to be prepared for.

Hiking or camping will have a whole different set of priorities than a bar-hopping trip, or a trip to visit the red light district.

A trip to another country by plane to go on walking tours will have significantly different needs than a road trip to the next state to visit a museum.

I totally agree. This packing list can serve as a guide that people can alter based on specific needs. I do the same myself.

Have to say I've never packed specifically for a trip to visit the red light district, though! Please do write a post on that packing list.

How do you wash your clothes? With so few you'd have to wash daily usually, no?

Hey Rick. I normally use soap I scrounge up wherever I'm staying. Sometimes a packable laundry stick if I'm feeling fancy. It's really just the underwear and socks that need washing. The rest, especially the merino stuff, lasts a long time before needing a clean.

This post should have been named the ultimate guide of the packing lists for men. Because it has covered everything a guy needs to pack while traveling.

How are you liking the Lems Primal Zen shoes so far? I also had a pair of Primal 2s that I loved and have been eying these after I wear my current shoes out.

Hey Andy — I've barely worn them so far because I got my Shamma sandals at about the same time and those have been able to do everything I've needed. On the one hike I took the Zens on, they did the trick. It'll be another 6 months minimum before I have enough experience to compare them to the Primal 2s.

Just curious, what does Kim's list look like?

A long longer than mine! She listed some of the items here: https://www.theunconventionalroute.com/packing-list-for-women/

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Hi Chris! This is a great list and article. It was super helpful for me my first time backpacking Europe last year. I have purchased many of the items. Thanks for keeping it updated! The courier bag was one of my favorite items. You said there is nothing like it, but I found this one at a Decathlon sporting goods store in Italy last year. Here is the link to the item on their website to order one. Hope this helps!

https://www.decathlon.sg/p/trekking-15l-compact-messenger-bag-forclaz-travel-black-forclaz-8560413.html

Hi Taylor. Glad you found the list helpful. And thanks for sharing the link for the courier bag! Will update now to mention it. Happy travels.

nail file/emory board! (didn't see cheap clippers which could also serve)- not just for that one snagged nail- but to file off …all kinds of things (think prison breakout!).

chapstick. I have the addiction. Ok ok – lip balm of some sort.

OH yeah – I didn't know what that ring thing is – had to look it up.

And….zip ties – I bring about a half dozen. useful for so many temporary securities – take no space or weight.

headlamp -saving the stubbed toes when peeing in the middle of the night – and other usees

list of emergency contact people at home

something else i wanted to mention -but too tired.

I like the zip tie and emergency contact ideas. Thanks, Suzie

I can’t believe how much overly detailed words I read to just have my few deleted because of all the Fn too many ads on your blog. It’s like such a hypocritical thing just like your judgment on others pack size comment I wonder what a blog with sooo many ads says about a person?? Yet I will hold my tongue. In hopes this doesn’t get deleted I’ve never once thought I need an extension cord. Thou I liked you find it helpful for needs. I like a universal adapter with multi usb plug-ins including a quick charging c I also bring small individual country plug bit as often in like Europe not as easy to just plug that adapter just straight into extension cords supplied at accommodations. A portable battery bank with all the cords attached to itself. Makes sense as solo traveling to always get charges on the go because how often I use google maps ! E SIM card way easier less Sea to summit x-seal large bowl for breakfast at Airbnb /accommodation plus can take breakfasts with to early flights ect to avoid spending more than tasty. I like a no sugar protein bar in pack incase thou nothing more and recommend always making sure getting balanced diet when travelling so are healthy to avoid getting sick 😉 Anywho luck being the individual that you each are and remember apart of the experience of getting to know yourself is figuring this all out on your own. Or ask Kim what she thinks

Haha. All the ads say "I'm not an independently wealthy person and I rather not try to make money by making affiliate commission by pimping things I wouldn't buy myself, so I let a company put ads on my site to pay my bills." If you can suggest better ways to monetize, I'm all ears. Thanks for your packing suggestions!

Absolutely love the packing list. I travel with something very similar and have exactly the same backpack as you – Osprey Nebula.

I have a question about how you lock it; do you use the padlock through the zips themselves or the tassels that attach to the zips? And which compartment do you lock, the main compartment and/or the laptop sleeve?

Thanks for the help,

Thanks Brad. Good question. Since getting the bag, I haven't traveled anywhere where I needed to lock it. When I do, I'll get one of those little locks with the wire that will fit on the zips (not the tassels, which will be too easy to cut). Or two? Depends on where I put my valuables. I'd probably just lock the main one.

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Travel Essentials for Men: The Ultimate Packing List

Seven years of travel goes by so quickly. I’ve traveled to more than 100 countries on all 7 continents and get asked about packing constantly. This single question has inspired me to share my top travel essentials for men.

I’m a believer in products and brands, if I pick something out to use, it will be tested to its limits. Everything listed below has been with me on my travels at one point or another over the years.

We have had varying adventures during our travels. We have hiked some of the tallest mountains and most active volcanoes in the world. We have experienced cold climates in Tibet, wet/humid climates in the Amazon and some of the hottest/driest climates while traveling in Africa.

For the first few years, we traveled full time, meaning I carried one set of clothing across 5 continents. Since then, we tend to travel from a base. This allows me to change out my clothes for each trip. 

Either way, these items are the ones I keep in my go-to pile. 

Top Travel Essentials for Men: The Ultimate Packing List

Table of Contents

Functional pants are definitely essential when you travel as much as we do. You can find pants that are suitable for all adventures and also look good enough to be worn out on the town.

Truly, wrinkle-free is the best, so you can roll them up into a ball and pack them away and take them out for next time with no stress over wrinkles.

Another great feature to have is stain resistant fabric that is easily washable. Last but not least is quick-drying fabric, so you can wash them before going to bed and they will be dry in the early morning. 

Top Recommended Pants:

• Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Pants
• Columbia Men’s Cascades Explorer Pant, Water & Stain Resistant
• Marmot Men’s Arch Rock Pants

I have put around 10,000 + miles on my Merrell Blaze Hiking Shoes. I have been happy with them for every adventure so far. No matter what the path was: dirt, asphalt, or no path at all, they have provided me with comfort and support.

They are water-resistant and the grip on the rubble sole has held up well even though they have been used for so long. 

Top Recommended Shoes:

• Merrell Blaze Hiking Shoes
• Columbia Men’s Redmond Low Hiking Shoe
• Salomon Men’s X Ultra 3 GTX Hiking Boot

There’s no wonder why these socks are the leader in socks for outdoor activates. They are a little pricey but worth every penny. They take a little longer than everything else in my pack to dry but they are worth it.

These socks are in great shape for being used for over 8,600+ miles. To this day they still fit like a glove. 

Top Recommended Socks:

• Icebreaker socks
• SmartWool PhD Outdoor Medium Crew
• Wigwam Men’s Hiking/Outdoor Pro Crew Socks

Best Boxers

I started our beginning backpacking trip with 4 pairs and ended the trip with the same 4 pairs. Two Gray, One Green, and One White. Exofficio is available for purchase in 17 countries.

The Exofficio boxers are still in like-new shape, they have held up beyond what I expected. Washing is quick and easy and they are truly quick-drying underwear. 

Top Recommended Boxers:

• Exofficio Give-N-Go Boxers
• Smartwool Men’s Base Layer Bottom – Merino 150 Wool Pattern Active Boxer Briefs
• Arc’teryx Phase SL Boxer Men’s

Best Button-Up Shirt

There’s no wonder why Columbia is a leader in outdoor clothing. These shirts feel great in all types of climates from hot to cold. The vented sides and back vents are a great plus for keeping you cool in the hottest weather.

I’ve drenched these shirts in sweat hiking and within thirty minutes they are dry.

One feature I really like is the ability to roll-up sleeves with the attached strap to keep them up. Another plus to these shirts is they look nice while your traveling and since some of these shirts are button-ups you can look professional while feeling casual.

I’m a believer in these shirts and they are a must for anyone who likes to explore the outdoors.

Top Recommended Button Up Shirt:

• Columbia Men’s Tamiami II Long Sleeve Shirt
• Columbia Men’s Tamiami II Short Sleeve Fishing Shirt
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Mountain Short-Sleeve Shirt

Best Active Tee

The Exofficio Give-N-Go Tee is a simple active t-shirt that’s quick drying. This shirt is comfy and a heck of a value for the price. These tees are good for using as a base layer if the weather is cold or as the only layer on a hot day.

No matter how much I sweat wearing this shirt it never really gets wet like other shirts which were a major plus!

I also used this shirt as a pajama top. I get really warm while sleeping and this shirt wicks away the heat and keeps my comfortable throughout the night. This is one of the only shirts I will sleep in because unfortunately, I am always warm when I sleep.

Top Recommended Active Tee:

• Exofficio Give-N-Go Tee
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Resolution Short-Sleeve T-Shirt
• Columbia Men’s PFG Terminal Tackle Long Sleeve Tee

Best 3 in 1 Jacket

My all-time favorite 3 in 1 jacket is the Jack Wolfskin-Norrland jacket. This jacket holds up well in snow, rain and cold weather. The fleece inner jacket can zip apart from the outer shell so you can wear it if it’s just cool out.

That was great for those cool camping nights in Africa. The rain jacket part has saved my butt many times from getting wet. 

Top Recommended 3 in 1 Jacket:

• Jack Wolfskin-Norrland 3 in 1 Jacket
• Columbia Men’s Rural Mountain 3 in 1 Interchange Omni Heat Jacket

Long Sleeve, 1/2 or 1/4 Zip

One of my favorite items, I basically live in them during our travels. For cold camping days and long flying days I have one of these long sleeve shirts with me.

You can get weeks of usage out of this with no need to wash it. When you do have to wash it though it takes some time to dry. This will be on me for all of my travels.

Top Recommended 1/2 & 1/4 Zip:

• Icebreaker Merino Original Long Sleeve Half Zip
• Columbia Men’s Standard Low Drag 1/4 Zip
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Cloud Layer Pro 1/4-Zip Pullover

Made out of rubber, they are light-weight for easy packing and are comfortable no matter what adventure we are on. I’ve even used them on some hikes, they are that comfortable.

I literally do not travel without a pair of Chaco sandals in my bag. While I wasn’t a fan at first and Lina had to convince me to try them, these sandals are just about the perfect travel shoe.

They are lightweight, pack easily into any bag and really hold up. I wear them in cities, hiking, water adventures and anywhere else I go. They dry fast and have good support.

Top Recommended Sandals:

• Crocs Sandals Chawaii Slide
• KEEN Men’s Arroyo II Hiking Sandal
• Merrell Men’s Sandspur Oak Sandal

Quick Dry Shorts

I love these shorts, they are good for anyone who loves the outdoors. These shorts are good for a long day of hiking or just relaxing on the beach. They are quick-drying and stain repellent.

I currently have a khaki pair and will be getting a darker pair, since on our over-landing trip from Cape Town to Cario they showed too much dirt I had to wash them after every use.

But if you like to wash after one wear, that’s ok too, as they are quick drying. These are my shorts of choice no matter what the adventure is.

Top Recommended Quick Dry Shorts:

• Columbia Men’s PFG Stain Repellent and Sun Protective Shorts
• Columbia Men’s Palmerston Peak Short
• Eddie Bauer Men’s Guide Pro Shorts

Swimming Trunks

These shorts have been in all of the oceans of the world! They are great quality and you definitely get what you pay for. The one pocket on the side is useful for putting all kinds of items like room keys and GoPro parts in it.

Just like most board shorts, they are quick drying.

Top Recommended Swimming Trunks:

• Billabong Men’s All Day Pro Boardshorts Grey Heather
• Amazon Essentials Men’s Quick-Dry 9″ Swim Trunk
• O’Neill Men’s Santa Cruz Solid 2.0 Boardshorts

It’s been nice to have a rash guard in my bag. For those days we are scuba diving or those days we are playing on the beach and I do not want to get much sun.

It’s quick-drying and provides comfort in the coldest waters. If your someone who scuba dives or even someone who enjoys water sports this is a must for you. It has also been nice to wear as a compression undershirt for extra warmth on those cold nights.

Top Recommended Rash Guards:

• Kanu Surf Men’s Long Sleeve Platinum UPF 50+ Rashguard, Grey
• O’Neill Men’s Basic Skins UPF 50+ Long Sleeve Rash Guard
• Hurley Men’s Long Sleeve Pro Light Quick Dry Sun Protection Rashguard

Buff Headwear

This is an item every traveler needs. There are twelve different ways you can wear your Buff headwear. For me, in Africa , I would use it as a durag (do-rag) covering my head from the hot African sun.

For early morning hikes, it’s nice to have my wool one around my neck to keep me warm.

Top Recommended Buff Headwear:

• BUFF Original Multifunctional Headwear, Graphite
• Buff Lightweight Merino Wool Printed Multifunctional Headwear

Not finding what you are looking for? Check out our favorite places to go shopping for travel gear.

• Shop Columbia – The industry leader in outdoor apparel and products; You can find anything from great jackets, gloves, hats, shirts, and travel pants.
• Shop REI – They offer some of the best outdoor gear around. We love REI since they have a year Love it or hate it no questions guarantee.
• Shop Moosejaw – Has a huge selection of outdoor gear at killer prices.

More on Travel Gear:

• Best Travel Towels for your Next Trip
• Best Travel Daypack: Top 12
• Best Carry on Backpacks for Travel
• Best Compact Binoculars for Outdoor Travel
• 15 Best Safari Bags for your Next Adventure
• 12 Best Down Vests
• Best Backpacking Stoves for Hiking & Travel
• How to Choose the Best GPS for Hiking
• Best Sleeping Bag Liners: Top 12
• Ultimate Travel Photography Gear List
• A Man’s Travel Clothing Essential- Bluff Works Pants
• How To Wear A Buff Headwear-It’s Easy!
• Best Travel Rain Jacket to Stay Dry on the Go
• Affordable Travel Gear Every Adventurer Should Carry

Did you like this story? Share it!

Travel planning resources, about david stock.

I have always been an outdoorsman so becoming an adventure traveler was just the next natural step. I love nature, I love to get off the beaten path and I like to explore. I enjoy scuba diving and cars. And yes, Lina and I have a naked dog.

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The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)

Written By: The Planet D

Travel Gear

Updated On: January 23, 2024

Packing can be one of the most frustrating elements of traveling. It doesn’t seem to matter if it is your first trip or your 10th, you always seem to miss something. We put together this ultimate packing list t o help you avoid those packing mistakes on your next trip.

Table of Contents

The Perfect Packing Checklist

It is important to note that we compiled this ultimate travel packing list from 10 years of being professional travelers and bloggers. The goal of this packing list is to provide you with packing tips that will allow you to travel as efficiently and as comfortably as possible.

Travel Packing List for Luggage

Choosing what type of luggage you are going to use is a personal choice. We have used everything from hi-tech wheeled luggage to the latest backpacks. These are our top recommendations for checked luggage and carry-on luggage that is durable and lightweight.

Aluminum Roller – Known as the Rolls Royce of Luggage, Sterling Pacific is the top choice for luxury travelers, frequent fliers, and pilots. Its aluminum body is lightweight and the Italian leather handles give it extra points for style. Plus it has a lifetime warranty.

4 Wheeled Roller : Our yellow   Voyageur Check-In 28  turned heads. We didn’t worry about anyone mixing up our bags on the conveyor belt with our unique color and design. We found the 28-inch a bit too large, but you can order 24? or 26?. But with the large handle and ultra-quite 360° spinner wheels it was super easy to navigate through the airport

Carry-on Roller : Pro Carry-on with Laptop Pocket  by Level8. We felt so chic going through the airport with these hard cases and modern design and it was easy t o  pop out my laptop and documents right from the front hard case pocket when going through security.

Travel Backpack : If you are heading to destinations that are less developed, you are going to want a reliable backpack. You will want something in the 55L size and it should be comfortable on your back. We recommend the Osprey Fairpoint for men and the Osprey Fairview for women.

Rolling Duffel Bag Eagle Creek Rolling Duffel – Duffel bags are lightweight and durable for rough terrain. We like the separate compartments for hiking boots and how it can still look elegant when going into higher-end hotels.

Messenger Bag Travelon Antitheft Messenger Bag   – Deb carries an over-the-shoulder bag that crosses over her body. It keeps valuables secure from any snatch and grabs and the RFID component helps with any cyber security.

Carry-on Backpack – We’ve recently started using this carry-on backpack by Standard Luggage. The 3 in 1 bag turns into a backpack, suitcase, and shoulder bag to suit your needs. It meets all airline cabin rules which is a bonus and expand from 35 – 45 L. Plus, it’s water resistant to help keep valuable electronics and camera gear safe.

In addition to your luggage, you are going to want to keep everything organized.

Organizing Your Luggage

The first thing you will want to purchase will be packing cubes. These are lightweight compression bags that can help you separate your different types of clothes and keep your bag organized.

• Electronics Organizer
• Toiletry Bag
• Foldable Day Pack
• Document Organizer

Pro Tip: When checking in at the airport, take your computers out of your carry-on bag and put them in a collapsible tote bag (we fold it in the front pocket of our carry-on.) That way it lightens your load should you be weighed, but it doesn’t look like an extra piece of luggage.

Travel Packing Lists for Clothes

Packing clothes can be the most confusing and frustrating experiences of all. What we have learned over the past 10 years fo traveling is to have a base set of close, or capsule wardrobe , consisting of pieces that can be mixed and matched. We then add on from there depending on the length of the trip, the weather at the destination, and if we are going carry-on only or not.

Capsule Wardrobe for Women

• 1x Travel Skirt
• 1x Convertible Pants
• 2x Casual Pants (Usually 1 pair of leggings and 1 pair of pants that can be dressed up or down)
• 1x Long-Sleeved Shirt (I may add one depending on the cultural norms of the country I am visiting.)
• 4x Short-Sleeved Shirts or Blouses
• 1x Bathing Suit
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater or Fleece
• 4-6x Sports Bras and Underwear
• 1- Dress/Sundress
• 2 Pairs of Shoes (1 casual pair and 1 hiking pair)
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool Hiking Socks)

Travel Accessories for Her

• Buffs or headbands
• Rain Jacket or Outer Shell

Capsule Wardrobe for Men

• 1x Long Sleeve Shirt
• 3x Short Sleeve Shirts
• 2x Convertable Pants
• 1x Lightweight pant or jeans
• 2x Shorts (1 doubles as a bathing suit)
• 4-6 Exofficio Underwear
• 4x Pairs of Socks (At least 2 are Merino Wool )
• 1x Merino Wool Sweater
• 2x Pairs of Shoes (1 casual and 1 for hiking)

Travel Accessories for Him

• Rain Jacket/Outer Shell

Pro Tip : If you are looking for a winter vacation planning list make sure to check out our How to Dress for Cold Weather article.

Checklist for Packing Toiletries

No travel packing list worth its weight would be complete without a comprehensive checklist for packing your toiletries. The first step is to make sure you have a good toiletry bag. We use this one as it is spacious, light, and hangs on the back of any door. To make it easier for you we have broken down to the travel essentials and the extras.

What to pack in your Toiletry Kit – Toiletry Essential Checklist

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and Conditioner (We transfer ours in GoToobes for easier storage)
• Tweezers and Nail Clippers
• Hand Sanitizer
• Gold Bond Medicated Powder (for hot climates)
• Face/Body Moisturizer
• Chapstick/Lip Balm
• Prescription Medication

Toiletry Extras Checklist

• Hair products like hairspray and hair gel
• Travel Mirror
• Shaving Kit and razors
• Pegless Clothesline
• Travel Towel
• Hairbrush or Tangle Teezer
• Toothbrush Sanitizer

Read:  7 Tips for Stress-Free Travel  – here you will find a travel packing list of what we take in our care package on

Packing Checklist for Electronics

When it comes to electronics there are a lot of variables that will determine what you take and what you leave at home. In today’s day and age, there are certain things that everyone will want to take with them, and most of them will fit easily into your carry-on luggage. This checklist for packing electronics will give you the tools to bring back great memories and pack as light as possible.

• World Travel Adaptor : Each country that you visit may have a different plug configuration. This adaptor has you covered for every country.
• Belkin Mini Surge Protector : This is one piece of electronics we don’t leave home without. It protects your electronics against surges, has 3 plugs and 2 USB outlets for charging.
• iPhone/Smartphone: We use the iPhone 11 Pro. : Almost a necessity in today’s world, a smartphone can come in handy in so many ways. You can use it as a camera, a place to store your itineraries and keep friends and family up to date on Social Media.
• Travel Camera: Our recommendation would be the Sony RX100 VII : A good camera that fits in your pocket should be on everyone’s travel checklist. We recommend one that is small, lightweight, and can fit in your pocket.
• Noise Cancelling Headphones: If you want to get any sleep on a plane or bus ride these are essential. We use Beats Studio 3 but some people prefer earbuds. Whichever you choose make sure they are good quality to drown out all that noise.
• Portable Power Bank : The last thing you want to do is run out of power for your electronics when you are on the road. We carry a portable power back that keeps all of our electronics charged.
• Memory Cards : Always pack spare memory cards so you don’t run out of space when you want to capture that perfect shot.

Optional Electronics

• E-Reader or Kindle : If you are into books this is something you will want to add to your packing list.
• Laptop (This is for extended trips) : We carry one everywhere as that is our business. We recommend you pack one for longer trips or if you are into taking a lot of photos and videos like us. We recommend the MacBook Air for most people.
• External Hard Drive : Plan on taking a lot of videos and photos? Make sure you back them up so if something happens you don’t lose all your precious memories.
• Drone: We use the Mavic Pro 2 : Add a whole new element to your memories with a drone. We have been using one for years and love it.
• Portable Bluetooth Speaker : If you love music as much as we do you have to pack one of these for some tunes in your hotel room.
• Travel Tripod : Whether it be for selfies or night photography you will be glad you have on in your bag for those unique situations.

Are you into Travel Photography? Make sure to check out my Travel Photography Gear Guide and find out what is in my camera bag.

Packing List for Comfort

If there is one thing we have learned after all of these years is that a little comfort goes a long way. Especially when you are traveling on airplanes and busses. By adding these travel accessories to your packing list you can rest assured you will be comfortable . All of these have been tested on long plane, train and bus rides so you know that they work.

• Travel Pillow : After flying over 500,000 miles we have found the Trtl Neck travel pillow to be the best travel pillow out there. It is comfortable, gives great supports, and takes up almost no room in your bag.
• Eye Mask and Ear Plugs : No plane flight would be complete without these. The Pretty Care Eye mask is what we recommend. IT doesn’t rest on your eyes, is padded, and blocks out all light.
• Foldable Water Bottle : Staying hydrated on the plane is paramount to feeling refreshed when you arrive at your destination. WE fill this up after security so we always have water on the plane with us.
• Sarong : We have found that plane blankets just don’t cut it. That is why we always have a sarong with us on the plane if the air is a little too cold and you want to bundle up.
• Chapstick and hand moisturizer : WE all know how dry the plane gets. I pack this moisturizing kit so that my hands and face stay moisturized throughout the flight.
• Flight Flap Phone and Tablet Holder : WE discovered this last year and fell in love with it. No more sore necks from watching movies on your phone and tablet. This hangs on the back of the seat so you can watch in comfort.
• Travel Socks : I started using compression socks because they prevent DVT. I know more than a few people who have gotten DVT and this can be very serious. Compression socks help prevent blood clots and are highly recommended.

Packing List for First Aid Kit

A first aid kit is an essential piece of travel gear. We have a n extensive first aid kit as we do a lot of adventures, but most people can get by with the essentials. You can buy pre-made first aid kits. This compact first aid kit  is a good start but it is just as easy to make one at home from your medicine cabinet. That way you only pack what you need.

• Prescription Medication – with a photocopy of our prescriptions
• Insect repellent 
• Advil or Tylenol for pain relief
• Gravol – for nausea  
• Benadryl and Claritin – For allergic reactions
• Allergy Eyedrops
• Imodium – for mild diarrhea
• Rehydration tablets and electrolyte tables – in case of dehydration or severe diarrhea.
• Topical Ointment like Polysporin or prescription Fucidin Cream – For cuts and scrapes
• Antiseptic spray – it’s important to clean cuts quickly, especially in tropical climates. 
• Moleskin – protects your skin from blisters.
• Thermometer
• Do you want to be prepared for every travel emergency? Check out our Ultimate First Aid Kit Packing List.

Travel Documents

Keeping your essential travel documents in order and organized can really take the stress out of travel. Using a travel organizer allows you to all the things you need in one convenient place.

• Passport and Visas- Make sure to have an electronic copy of both in case yours gets lost.
• Personal ID like a drivers license
• Bank cards, Credit Cards. Keep a contact number for your bank and credit card companies in your phone for emergencies.
• Emergency cash: We suggest 1 days worth of USD.
• Frequent Flier cards
• Travel Insurance documents, policy number , and contact information.
• Immunization records if needed.
• Itineraries or reservations- either printed out or stored in an app like Tripit.
• Boarding passes
• Emergency contact information.
• Guide book or maps- in either hard copy or digital copy.

Travel Security

Travel security is something we should all take seriously. Most problems tend to occur in bigger cities and in the form of pickpockets or petty theft. If you add these items to the travel packing list it might help deter would-be thieves.

• RFID Wallet: Protects against RFID Skimming, which is a form of theft using wireless transmitters to gain information to your credit and debit card identification chips. They can do it just by walking by.
• Money belt or neck wallet: We used these in the early days and they can be useful in the big cities where there are a lot of pickpockets.
• PacSafe Luggage Lock: This is perfect if you are staying in hostels or guesthouses.
• Luggage tracker: Give you peace of mind and lets you track your luggage if it gets lost.

More Anti-Theft Suggestions: If you want to get more in-depth about protecting your valuables when you travel check out THE BEST ANTI THEFT TRAVEL BAGS AND ACCESSORIES

Pre-Trip Checklist

Regardless of whether you are going on an extended trip or just a 2 week vacation there are a few things you are going to want to do before you board the plane. We have a complete pre-travel checklist that you can see here.

• Call your banks and credit card companies to tell them of your travel plans. This will avoid cards being flagged for purchases in another country.
• Check baggage restrictions
• Check to see if there are any Visa requirements
• Check Immunization requirements
• Leave flight and travel itineraries with a friend or relative.
• Check-in online or check flight information before leaving for the airport.

And there you have it. Our complete international travel packing list. We have done our best to answer all your travel packing questions and give you some packing tips that you can use on your next vacation. After years of traveling around the world, we hope that our extensive experience helps you when you are deciding what to pack for your next big adventure.

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Looking for more packing tips?

If you liked our ultimate travel packing list, why not check out some other great packing lists and travel tips travel that will be sure to help you out on your next trip.

• The Ultimate Camping Packing List : All the essentials you will need for your next camping trip.
• The Ultimate European Vacation Packing List : Great packing tips for your next trip to Europe.
• The Only Pre-Travel Checklist You Will Ever Need Everything you will need to do before you head to the airport for your next vacation.
• The Best Anti Theft Travel Bags and Accessories : Tips and recommendations on what you need to stay organized while traveling.

You May Also Like These Helpful Travel Planners

• Packing for Travel – 6 Tips to Make Your Trip a Breeze
• The Best Travel Gear – Unique Ideas for Smart Packing
• Travel Photography Gear Guide: What’s In My Camera Bag?
• Do I Really Need Travel Medical Insurance?
• How We Choose Travel Insurance To Best Suit Our Needs
• Essential Tips for Essential Travel
• 10 Must Have Items to Make Air Travel Easy

What else would you add to our travel packing list? Add them in the comments below.

Disclosure:  The links above are affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. We receive affiliate commissions, but it’s no extra cost to you!

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Book Your Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner. We have used them for years and have found that they have the best flight deals.

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor.

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Safety Wing - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Book Your Activities: Looking for walking tours, skip-the-line tickets, private guides, and more? Then we recommend Get Your Guide.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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About The Planet D

Dave Bouskill and Debra Corbeil are the owners and founders of The Planet D. After traveling to 115 countries, on all 7 continents over the past 13 years they have become one of the foremost experts in travel. Being recognized as top travel bloggers and influencers by the likes of Forbes Magazine , the Society of American Travel Writers and USA Today has allowed them to become leaders in their field.

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29 thoughts on “The Ultimate Travel Packing List (By Professional Travellers)”

This is very good content, images to perfect articles, hope you will share more in the future for everyone to see. Thank you very much.

Goig to Machu Pichu in Feb 2020.. 67 yrs young, not a regular hiker. Can you help me with packing list please? Also Amazon headwaters then to coast to relax by ocean for couple of days.

Hi I’m travelling from Australia to India for 2 weeks and will be visitng Dharamashala, Bodh Gaya and Dehli (2 nights)? I am 21yo, well I will be when I leave on 15 January. I am travelling with 7 others. I will be sharing a room with another lady, which I am pleased about as I can be prone to anxiety. Could you please help me with a packing list? Also do you think I should purchase a back pack that will protect my cards from being scanned? Do you recommend some type of money bag/sleeve that I can safely hold my money and passport? Thanks and sorry for all the questions, I don’t want to be caught out!

Excellent blog post, and thank you for sharing some very helpful thoughts!!! Best of luck with your travels.

if you are only using a carry-on, you cannot take tweezers, or small scissors. They were taken away from me when I had them in a carry-on.

Actually I have affiliate links for both booking.com and lonely planet, but only on my guides section. The booking.com link works well, $15 for whenever somebody uses my link. On top of it, I do my own hotel bookings through my own link, so I’m actually giving myself a $15 discount 🙂 I only have these links on a very small section of my blog, totally agree with not doing too much of it early on. I’ve seen too many blogs that I previously enjoying selling out to advertising and turning into what looks like an online Casino site 🙂 Frank (bbqboy)

Great to hear Frank! Thanks for sharing.

Hey guys – we ended up going to the Bay and getting a couple of rolling duffels. Plus they had a special over the weekend and picked up bags that were usually $600 each (we went for the higher end models) at 50% off. So great tip about the Bay. Yes, I should be smarter about affiliate links on the blog. I’ve been a bit lazy on the monetization aspect… Frank

That’s fantastic! The Bay is great isn’t it? I love shopping there. Every time I go to the checkout, they always have a surprise discount. Even when it’s advertised on the item that it’s on sale, they seem to have another deeper discount at the desk. I think it’s one of the best places to shop for luggage. Best of luck with affiliates. It took us years to get around to it. You really need traffic to make it happen as you don’t make much off of each item. It’s base more on volume than sales. With Amazon it’s something like 4%. But it’s nice to get a bit of extra in the pockets if you can supply your readers with something of value.

Great! Have one right downtown next to the optometrist I’m seeing today. Thanks!

Perfect. Hope your eyes are doing well 🙂 The bay always has amazing deals on luggage.

I have seen so many of such type of blogs which contains these packing lists. But all of them possesses the same sort of things in the list. You have done such a wonderful job of adding some brilliant things, which can be very useful in any tour. I really appreciate your work.

Thank you for the kind words. We had a lot of fun putting it together. I just went through my bag and started making a list. It was a lot of work, but I think it’s worth it.

Wow…really great packing list especially with the images, never seen this before. It would be great if you can create a smartphone app 🙂

I was never a fan of these packing list posts. But we’ve been travelling non-stop now for a year and have had so many frustrations with our gear. Besides too much stuff (inefficient clothing mostly) our carrying bags (backpacks) just so damn heavy. Like you say, you can go light when travelling for a couple of weeks but when you’re gone for a year you’re going to be carrying more. We’ll be back in Canada next week and one of the many things we have to do during our month there is to re-organize our whole baggage/packing situation. I know I’m asking for a lot here – but any idea where in Montreal we can get some of those Travel bags? I’m not one to buy stuff online, have to see it with my own eyes. Informative post! Frank (bbqboy)

HI Frank, We bought our rolling duffles at The Bay, they always have amazing deals.

Some great ideas here, but I cant fathom traveling with this much stuff or luggage. I take much shorter trips, but do everything in a 20″ expandable rollaboard and daypack.

My concern with packing camera gear in a larger back is what if you are forced to check that bag? Even runway check the bag? My Crumpler camera bag and laptop fit in the daypack so even if I am forced to check the rollaboard, I have my breakables in the smaller bag to carry on the plane.

I do what Stuart mentioned in the above comment. I have a list for a carryon beach/adventure vacation; a list for the checked bag adventure/beach vacation; lists for carryon and checked city vacations and a business trip packing list. All of these can be altered for the weather/sports at the location.

There’s certainly some good kit on this list. A friend of mine swears that the best way to pack is to maintain lists for different types of destination (i.e. one for winter sports and another for beach vacations) and refer to them while packing. I still pack on an ad hoc basis! Enjoy your travels.

Some great tips here guys! I wish I had read one of these before I first hit the road seven years ago! – certainly would have changed what I took! These days, as long as I have my knife and my head torch; I know I’m pretty much ready for any adventure 🙂

Great article Dave and Deb! You guys are travel experts so if you like our clothes we know we’re doing something right. We look forward to continuing following your travels!

I like it so much. Each time I travel and expect long hour travel by plane, I make sure I have a jet lag cure like JetlagFX. It’s a great supplement and works well for me.

I just got a sample pack of JetlagFX, I can’t wait to try it out.

Great lists! As someone who packs light when I travel, I like how you categorized everything and stuck to the basics.

Thanks. We aren’t the lightest packers since we are on the road constantly, but for we find this list does everything we need without too much extraneous weight.

Great article!! i am a girl so is difficult for me to make a Packing list , but i really think that i have to make one the next trip because i always travel with a lot of stuff in my bags.

Wow, it really is a long list of things…. Bags, organizers, clothes, gears………. simply amazing By the way, Deb looks dashing on the image carrying luggage…

Holy moly, that is the motherload of packing lists. I’m bookmarking it for later. I’m particularly interested in your photography and electronics. I have only just started making enough money writing to even begin to think about traveling and writing full time, but I just don’t know where to begin. Thanks for this awesomely detailed post.

Great post! I need some organization in packing wisely when traveling. My favorite was the travel organizers. I probably would not need as much electronic gear as you have. My iPhone is sufficient enough for me when taking pictures. They come out pretty good. Some of your other ideas are great. We usually check on locations for laundry when traveling for any length of time. This too can cut down on the amount that you have to pack. The downside is that it may take up some of your time to do the laundry.

wow great information. i like this list for travel packing.

Solo Travel Packing List for Males – 100 Items Men Must Pack

Wondering what to pack when traveling alone as a man ? Worried that you’re going to forget essential items? Relax. Preparing for your trip is easy when you use my solo travel packing list for males.

This packing list contains 100 items that every man needs for solo travel; including essential documents, different types of bags, electronics, gadgets, clothing, shoes, toiletries and miscellaneous extras. It is suitable for trips of any length, from a few days to a few months.

I’ve also listed items that should not be included on a male solo travel packing list. Plus, I help you decide between a suitcase vs backpack and share my top ten tips for travel packing.

Learn about male solo travel from a man that’s done it for 5+ years – only on Nomadic Yak!

Essentials and documents

Bags and backpacks, electronics and gadgets, clothes and shoes, miscellaneous extras, photography.

• What Not to Include
• Suitcase vs Backpack
• Packing Tips
• More Solo Travel Tips

Solo Travel Packing List for Males – 100 Essential Items for Men

Regardless of where and when you are travelling, there are some essential items and documents that must be included on every man’s solo travel packing list. 

• Passport 
• Driving licence – If you plan on driving around your destination, check whether you are required to carry an International Driving Permit (IDP).
• Visas – Check whether you need a visa to visit your destination. Use your official government travel advisory.
• Tickets and reservations – You will likely have your flights, transport and booking information stored in your email. Download the files to a folder on your phone in case you don’t have internet access. You could also print off physical copies in case you lose your phone.
• Credit and debit cards – Before leaving, alert your bank that you will be travelling overseas so that your cards aren’t blocked. Also, consider getting a travel debit card, which can help you save on transaction, withdrawal and exchange fees.
• Local currency – Visit an exchange before leaving and get about $100-200 USD of currency for your destination. You may need it when you arrive, for transport from the airport to your accommodation.
• Extra passport photos – Can be used if you need to replace a lost or stolen passport whilst overseas.
• Copies of your ID – Scan and save a digital copy of your passport, driving licence and any other form of ID. Consider also printing off a copy of each and carrying it with you.
• Vaccination certificate – Some countries may recommend or require you to show proof of vaccination upon entry. Check this CDC list of destinations .
• Bank statements – Some countries will require you to show that you have a certain amount of savings upon entry.
• Travel insurance documents – Some countries will require you to show proof of travel insurance upon entry.
• Emergency contacts – Carry a piece of paper with your emergency contacts (in case you lose your phone). Also, set up the emergency contacts feature on your iPhone or Android .
• Plastic folder – Use a thin plastic folder to store all the essential documents on your solo travel packing list for males. Stow it in your carry-on bag.
• Travel wallet – Use a travel wallet to store your passport, cash and cards in one easy-to-reach place when travelling alone.

All Your Vital Documents in One Safe Place

Zero Grid Travel Wallet

• No more fumbling around for passports, credit cards, cash, pens, etc.
• Small enough to slide in your pocket or backpack.
• Protects against card skimmers and pickpockets.

Most male solo travellers carry one large bag for luggage, one mid-sized bag for day use and a number of smaller bags for specific purposes. Your setup will depend on the type of equipment you are taking. It will also depend on how you like to travel and how manoeuvrable you want to be.

• Suitcase or 70L travel backpack (luggage) – This big bag will carry your clothes and toiletries. See the section below when trying to decide between a suitcase vs a backpack for solo male travel. Each has advantages and disadvantages.
• Small backpack (day/carry-on bag) – This smaller backpack will carry your electronics, essential documents and miscellaneous extras. High-quality travel backpacks (such as the 70L Osprey Farpoint ) come with a detachable daypack.
• Bum bag – You can use a fanny pack for carrying small items on day trips (when you don’t want to carry a small backpack). When not in use, I stow it in my small backpack.
• Faux leather toiletries bag – For keeping all your toiletries together and hygienic. If you’re backpacking and need to save space, use a roll-up toiletry bag instead .
• Ziplock bags x3 – Keep together small items and keep your phone dry in the wet.
• Dry bag (optional) – If you plan on partaking in water sports such as kayaking or tubing during your solo male travel, a dry bag will protect your things from the wet.
• Backpack rain cover (optional) – If you are travelling during the rainy season and concerned about your backpack getting soaked, protect it with a cover.

My Daily Go-To

Eastpak Doggy Bag

• Worn close to the body. Can’t easily be snatched.
• No more walking around with bulging pockets.
• Heaps of storage: I can easily fit my iPhone X, Airpods, wallet, charging cable, and sanitiser.

The electronic devices and gadgets that a man includes on his solo travel packing list will depend on how long he will be travelling, how much photography he will be doing and whether or not he will need to work whilst travelling.

• Smartphone and case – Your smartphone is your lifeline when travelling alone as a male. Protect it with a shock-proof case and a glass screen protector .
• Multi-charging cable – One cable with three connectors – lightning, USB C and Micro USB. Can be used to charge all my devices (iPhone, iPad, Airpods, GoPro, power bank) without carrying multiple cables.
• Local SIM Card – Most of the time, you will buy a local SIM card upon arriving at your destination. However, sometimes you can preorder them in advance and pick them up at the airport. Just make sure you buy a SIM with plenty of data.
• Global adapter – Rather than buying an adapter for each country that you visit, buy a global adapter with multiple USB A and USB C charging ports. Make sure that it has adapters for the USA, UK, EU and Australia.
• Airpod Pros 2 – Earbuds are preferable to headphones because they take up less space. I also protect my Airpod Pros with a rubber case .
• Airfly Bluetooth transmitter – Listen to aeroplane movies on your Bluetooth earphones. Only takes 10 seconds to set up and means you don’t have to use crappy airline earphones.
• VPN – One of my best solo travel safety tips is to connect to a VPN before using any public Wi-Fi network. This will help to protect you from having your data stolen. 
• Maps.Me – This is the best navigation app for solo travel overseas. It allows you to download offline maps and save points of interest so that you can always find your way around without internet access.
• Laptop and sleeve case (optional) – It is not necessary to travel with your laptop unless you will need it for work. Most of your bookings and trip organisation can be done on your smartphone.
• iPad (optional) – Again, it is not necessary to include a tablet on your solo travel packing list for males. However, it is nice if you want to read or watch a film. It can also be handy for photo editing software.
• Kindle E-reader (optional) – Do not take a separate E-reader if you have already included a tablet device on your solo travel packing list. Save space by using apps such as Kindle or Apple Books on your tablet.
• Power bank (optional) – If you take a power bank, be sure to pack it in your carry-on luggage. It cannot be stored in your checked luggage on flights.
• Airtag (optional) – Place the Airtag in your luggage so that you can track its location if it is lost by an airline or stolen.
• Nintendo Switch (optional) – Keep yourself entertained during long flights and lonely nights.

3 Pieces of Tech I Take on Every Solo Trip

Epicka Universal Travel Adapter

• 4 different plugs cover 150 countries.
• 6 simultaneous charging ports: USB-A, USB-C and AC.

Multi Charging Cable

• 3-in-1 fast-charging adapters: lightning, USB-C and Micro-USB.
• Retractable for easier packing.

AirFly Bluetooth Transmitter

• Listen to airplane movies on my Bluetooth earphones.
• 10-second setup.
• No more crappy airline earphones.

Your season of travel, the size of your bags, the duration of your trip and the type of trip that you are undertaking (e.g. adventure, backpacking, luxury, etc.) will determine the types of clothes and shoes that you include on your solo travel packing list for males. 

• Underwear x5
• Socks x5 – Include one pair of thick dry-tech hiking socks if you plan on trekking.
• Swimsuit x1 – Try to take a pair that can double as both sports shorts and swim shorts.
• Shorts x1 – Avoid denim shorts as most men find that they chafe. Instead, take cotton, linen or moisture-wicking fabric.
• Tee-shirt or tank top x4
• Long-sleeved top x1 – Offers sun protection in summer and warmth in winter for men travelling alone.
• Sweatshirt x1 – Even the warmest destinations can get chilly sometimes (especially during the night). Take a sweatshirt or hoodie for warmth.
• Bucket hat x1 – Protect your face and neck from the sun and keep your hair out of your face.
• Sunglasses and case – Protect your eyes from sun damage. Particularly important when visiting the sea or snow.
• Rain jacket or poncho x1 – If you will be travelling solo during the wet season, take a proper rain jacket or rain shell that can be packed into its own little bag. If you think there is only an occasional chance of rain, a throwaway poncho should suffice.
• Trainers or sneakers x1 – It’s worth investing in a good pair of men’s trainers or sneakers that provide comfort, support and grip. These will be your main shoes when travelling solo.
• Sandals or flip flops x1 – All men should include flip flops on their solo travel packing list. They can be used at the beach, in the shower, around your accommodation and for quick trips to nearby stores.
• Throwaway shorts x1 (optional) – An old pair of shorts that you can get dirty during adventure activities and throw out afterwards.
• Throwaway tee x1 (optional) – An old t-shirt that you can get dirty during adventure activities and throw out afterwards.
• Jeans or trousers x1 (optional) – Chances are that you will visit a restaurant, bar or club at some point during your solo travel and men may be expected to wear jeans or trousers.
• Button-up shirt x1 (optional) – Again, if you plan on visiting fancy restaurants or clubs whilst travelling solo, men may be expected to wear a button-up shirt.
• Belt (optional)
• Hiking shoes x1 (optional) – Only take a pair of hiking shoes or boots if you plan on doing lots of trekking doing your solo travel. Otherwise, it is not worth carrying the extra weight.

Additional winter clothes

If you will be travelling during the colder winter months, add these additional clothes to your solo travel packing list for males.

• Winter Jacket x1 – The outer layer that will trap heat and protect you from wind and rain.
• Fleece x1 – A middle layer that traps heat and dries quickly.
• Tracksuit pants x1 – Comfortable pants that trap heat.
• Thermal top and pants x1 (optional) – These inner layers may be necessary if travelling in sub-freezing temperatures.
• Scarf or neck warmer x1 (optional)
• Gloves x1 (optional ) – A simple pair of woollen gloves may suffice. However, in extreme cold and wet, you may want to opt for waterproof winter gloves.

Whilst most men don’t mind roughing it, your fellow travellers won’t want to hang around with you if you stink of body odour and bad breath (and female travellers certainly won’t want to get down and dirty with you). Put together a toiletries bag with the following items.

• Toothbrush and toothpaste – Store your toothbrush inside a breathable travel case to protect it from bacteria.
• Deodorant – Men’s roll-on deodorant tends to be smaller and more travel-friendly than spray deodorant.
• Sunscreen – Wrap in a plastic zip-lock bag to prevent spillage.
• Lip balm – Protect your lips from getting chapped and sun damaged.
• Razor and shaving soap (or rechargeable electric shaver ) – Whilst a razor gives a close shave, an electric shaver is more convenient and faster for your face and body.
• Prescription medication – Make sure that you buy enough prescription medication before leaving for your solo travel. You don’t want the hassle of seeing a doctor for a prescription when travelling overseas. 
• Condoms – Take them out of the box but keep them in your toiletries bag to prevent them from being damaged.
• Mosquito repellent – Particularly important when visiting countries where malaria and mosquito-borne diseases are prominent.
• Hand sanitiser – Keep it in your day bag as a convenient way to clean your hands before meals and after visiting the bathroom.
• Tissues – Buy a small travel pack rather than a large box of tissues.
• Face masks – It is still mandatory to wear a face mask on some flights and attractions.
• Solid shampoo and conditioner (optional) – Most hostels will not provide you with shampoo or conditioner. However, motels, hotels and Airbnbs might. Save space in your luggage by buying these when you arrive at your destination.
• Body soap (optional) – Most hostels will not provide you with body wash or soap. However, motels, hotels and Airbnbs might. If you need to save space in your luggage, buy body wash when you arrive at your destination.
• Motion sickness pills (optional) – Particularly important if you suffer from travel sickness or will be travelling a lot by water or air.
• Band-Aids (optional)
• Antibiotic ointment (optional) – clean and sanitise wounds (small cuts and bites) to prevent infection.
• Q-tips (optional)

How to Stay Handsome on the Road

Philips All-in-One Style Kit

• 13 tools for trimming facial, body and head hair.
• Comes with a travel bag for convenience.
• Self-sharpening blades mean no oil needed.

Solo travellers face unique dangers that most tourists never encounter. Add these safety items to your solo travel packing list for males and keep yourself safe on the road.

• TSA-approved padlocks – Always keep your luggage and day bag locked to prevent theft. Combination locks are best because you don’t have to carry a key.
• Fake smartphone and fake cash (optional) – If you’re solo travelling through a dangerous destination, keep a fake smartphone and cash in one pocket of your fanny pack (separate from your real phone and cash). Should you be mugged or robbed, you can hand over the fakes and immediately leave the area.
• Acemining portable door lock (optional) – Allows you to lock any hotel or motel door. Only takes 10 seconds to set up and prevents intruders from being able to turn the door handle.
• ZZRUI door stopper security alarm (optional) – Jam this behind your closed door to stop intruders from breaking in. An alarm will warn you if someone is trying to open the door.

I’ve Never Had Anything Stolen From My Bags

2x Forge TSA Numeric Locks

• Stop thieves from getting into your bags or hostel locker.
• Don’t worry about carrying and losing keys.
• Just remember a 4-digit code of your choosing.

Add these odd bits and bobs to your solo travel packing list for men. Some are essential, whilst others will just make your trip a little easier and more enjoyable.

• Trash bag – Can also be used to store wet swimwear or rubbish.
• Quick-drying microfiber towel – Smaller and faster drying than a bath or beach towel. An essential on your male solo travel packing list.
• SIM card tool – Required to remove your smartphone SIM card and replace it with a local SIM card.
• Pen – Vital for filling out forms in a hurry, such as immigration arrival cards.
• Inflatable travel pillow (optional) – Stop your head from flopping around and get a comfortable sleep on planes, trains and buses.
• Loop earplugs and case (optional) – If you will be sharing a hostel dorm room with other snoring women and men, you should add earplugs to your female solo travel packing list.
• Eye mask and case (optional) – Again, great for blocking out the light when sleeping in hostel dorms.
• Pocket knife (optional) – Can be very handy for fixing things, picking splinters and all sorts of odd jobs. But double-check if it is allowed to be stowed in your checked baggage.
• Headlamp or torch (optional) – Can be useful when camping or digging around in your bag in a dark hostel dorm. However, it is often more convenient to use the torch on your smartphone.
• Lighter (optional) – Whilst this is mostly for smokers, offering a lighter can also be a great way for men to make friends when travelling solo.
• Trinket from home (optional) – Take a small photo or other memento from home to help you feel better when you’re homesick.

How I Sleep Like a Log on Long-haul Flights

Inflatable Travel Pillow

No more flopping head or sore neck. Sleep comfortably.

Loop Earplugs

Block out the noise of rattling plane parts, crying babies and snoring dormmates.

Contoured Eye Mask

Soft memory foam and contour mean no pressure on eyes.

Share your adventures with the world and grow your social media following with epic content. Include these photography items on your solo travel packing list for males.

• Camera – Only take a camera and lens if you want high-quality photographs. Otherwise, your smartphone’s camera should be capable of getting some decent shots and will save you a lot of hassle.
• Camera cleaning kit – Keep your lenses and mirrors clean so that you can capture clear shots.
• Camera battery and charger
• GoPro Action camera (optional) – Want to capture exciting moments during your solo trip? Take your GoPro.
• Camera bag backpack (optional) – A shoulder bag for your camera can be a nuisance when travelling solo. If you’re a photographer, consider buying a backpack with storage compartments for your camera and lenses.
• Selfie stick (optional) – Save yourself from constantly having to ask others to take photos of you. Some selfie sticks also transform into a tripod and have a remote so you can take epic landscape selfies.
• Camera tripod (optional) – Capture landscape or high-speed shots without camera shake. Also useful for taking selfies. 
• Microphone for camera/smartphone (optional) – Capture crystal-clear audio when videoing your travels on your camera or smartphone.
• Pro lens kit for smartphone (optional) – Capture epic landscapes with the wide angle lens (expands the field of view by 45%). Magnify nearby subjects with the macro lens for breath-taking close-up shots.
• Micro SD memory card (optional) – Buy a 256GB SD card or larger so that you can take lots of photos and videos without constantly changing cards.
• SD card to Lightning adapter (optional) – Transfer photos from your SD card to your iPad in seconds. Perfect if you plan on doing lots of photo editing.

Quality Content with a Smartphone

Xenvo Pro Lens Kit

3 lens combinations. Wide lens for 45% larger landscapes. Macro lens for stunning close-ups.

Movo VXR10 Microphone

Capture crystal-clear audio when videoing your travels on your smartphone.

Selfie Stick and Tripod

No more asking others to take photos. Comes with a remote for epic selfies.

What Not to Include on Your Solo Travel Packing List for Males

There are many advantages and disadvantages of travelling alone . One of the disadvantages is that you have limited luggage space.

Keep your solo travel packing list as light as possible, even if you’re a big man with lots of strength. Keeping things light makes you more manoeuvrable, reduces stress on your body and helps to minimise luggage fees.

Do not include these items on your solo travel packing list for males:

• A thick wallet – A big, chunky wallet is uncomfortable to carry in your pocket and may make you a target for theft. Replace it with a slim wallet or money clip.
• Unnecessary cards and items in your wallet – Empty your wallet of unneeded healthcare cards, rewards cards, business cards, spare keys, cash and coins.
• Snacks and food – Don’t bother taking food with you from home, as some of it may not even make it through customs at the airport. Just buy snacks once you arrive.
• Pyjamas – Question whether you need to take a pair of pyjamas. If not, sleep in a pair of underpants or shorts.
• Paper notebook – It is much more convenient to take notes on your phone, rather than carry a paper notebook which is bulky and can be damaged.
• Guidebooks – There’s no need to carry big and bulky guidebooks with you. You can always access Nomadic Yak’s destination guides online (and even save the pages for offline reading).
• Large amounts of cash – Try not to carry more than USD $200 at any one time. Carrying more than this could make you a target for theft or robbery.
• Water bottle – There are many countries around the world where you should not drink tap water as it may cause illness. Instead of filling up a water bottle, buy sealed bottles of water and recycle the bottle whenever possible. 
• Keys – Don’t take your car or home keys overseas with you. You don’t want to risk losing them. Instead, leave them with family or friends.
• Card games – There’s no need to carry a deck of cards with you. Most hostels and hotels will offer cards and games. And other travellers often carry their own.

Suitcase vs Backpack for Male Solo Travel

Solo male travellers often question whether they should take a suitcase vs backpack. Both suitcases and backpacks have advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the following factors:

• Your destination – Are the sidewalks well paved for suitcase wheels or would it be easier to carry a backpack?
• Your need for manoeuvrability – Will you need to navigate stairs, hills and hiking trails?
• The type of transport you will be travelling on – Will you be travelling frequently on planes, trains and coaches? Will you be travelling by motorcycle or scooter?
• Protecting your possessions – Do you have fragile items in your luggage that need the protection of a suitcase shell?
• How often do you need to access your possessions – Will you be staying in one place for multiple days or will you be travelling on an almost daily basis?

A suitcase is better suited to solo travellers who won’t be frequently catching transport between destinations. In other words, a suitcase is great if you plan on staying in one place for more than a few days (i.e. hotel stays).

The advantages of a suitcase are:

The Only Suitcase You’ll Ever Need to Own

Amazon Basics Hardside Spinner

• Extra-thick ABS hard shell protects your fragile items.
• 30% cheaper than other brands.
• 30-inch option makes it easy to fit all your luggage.

A backpack is better suited to solo travellers who will be frequently catching transport between destinations. In other words, a backpack is great if you plan on travelling every few days (i.e. backpacking, touring or adventure travel).

The advantages of a backpack are:

This Backpack Has Lasted Me 7+ Years

Osprey Farpoint 70

• 15L daypack with laptop sleeve (included) can be attached to the back of 70L backpack.
• Comfortable to carry thanks to hip belt design.
• Lots of padding for extra protection.

Packing Tips for Solo Travel

Men must pack lightly when travelling solo. Remember, a light packing list will make you more manoeuvrable, save you money on baggage fees and reduce stress on your body.

Here are my top ten tips for travel packing as a solo male:

• Buy clothes at your destination – Sometimes, it’s cheaper and easier to buy some clothing at your destination (particularly in developing regions such as South Asia, South America and Africa). This will help you save space in your luggage. Afterwards, you can ship it home, throw it out or donate it.
• Wear bulky items when flying – If you are concerned about your luggage being over the airline’s weight limit, wear the heaviest items whilst flying (e.g. sweatshirt, jacket, jeans, etc.)
• Buy travel-sized toiletries – Full-sized toiletries take up too much space. Instead, use travel-sized toiletries, which are small enough to take in carry-on (great for refreshing yourself on long flights).
• Roll your clothes – The most efficient way to pack your bag is to roll your clothes up rather than folding them. Then, stack the rolls beside one another and fill every crevice in your bag.
• Pack inside your shoes – There is valuable packing space inside your shoes. Stuff them with socks, underwear and other small items.
• Pre-pack liquids in a zip-lock bag – Airport security will only let you through if your liquids are smaller than 100ml (3.4 ounces) each and packed in a clear quart-sized zip-lock bag (about 17cm by 20cm). Instead of stressing out at the airport, prepare this in advance.
• Use packing cubes – Packing cubes are an affordable way to keep luggage organised in your bag. You can quickly reach for the cube you want and stack it back in your bag when done.
• Pack electronics in carry-on – The best way to protect your valuable electronics is to pack them in your carry-on luggage. However, be aware that you will need to pull it out at airport security.
• Keep frequently-used items at the top – Keep frequently-used items such as toiletries, a towel and flip-flops at the top of your bag for easy access.
• Don’t pack bed linen – Once upon a time, it was the norm to bring your own linen when backpacking. These days, hostels provide the linen for visitors. Just make sure you book a hostel that rates highly for cleanliness.

Related Posts

Solo Travel Packing List for Females (100 Crucial Items)

Traveling Alone as a Man: 15 Things to Expect and 5 Tips

Is It Weird For A Guy To Travel Alone?

Find more solo travel tips at nomadic yak.

Have you put together all the items on this solo travel packing list for males? 

Even though you now know what to pack for solo travel, there’s a lot more that you need to do before setting off on your trip!

Nomadic Yak helps solo travellers to plan journeys that are adventurous and authentic.

Every article is written by me, Harry Dale. I’ve travelled to 40+ countries over the last 5 years – alone.

On Nomadic Yak, I’ve shared everything you need to know about male solo travel .

You’ll also find 100s of solo travel tips on how to save money, make more friends, build a social media following and much more.

Plus, you can use my solo travel destination guides to discover international sights and attractions that few other travellers get to witness.

Creator of Nomadic Yak

At age 22, I had never travelled overseas. Six years later, I have travelled alone through 35 countries and work wherever I like as a freelance writer.

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My Five Acres

Make Travel Truly Transformational

Travel Essentials for Men – How to Pack Perfectly for Any Trip

Love to travel but have no idea what to pack? Don’t worry. I created this ultimate list of travel essentials for men based on my own travels in more than 50 countries. Read on to make packing hassle-free.

Choose Your Ideal Travel Backpack or Luggage

Get an anti-theft day pack, invest in packing cubes, gather the essential men’s travel clothing, choose the right travel shoes, essential men’s outerwear for travel, travel toiletries list for men, essential travel gadgets, travel safety gear for men, essential travel accessories for men, what men need in their carry-on, things you don’t need to bring, a final word about travel essentials for men.

This article may contain affiliate / compensated links. For full information, please see our  disclaimer  here.

Let’s admit it.

Guys tend to be a little sloppy when it comes to packing. Most of us spend 15 minutes the night before our flight, throwing a bunch of random items in a suitcase and calling it done.

In fact, the chances are that more women will read this guide than men. And then they’ll pass it on to the man in their lives to encourage them to pack better.

Is that how you got here?

No matter who you are or how you got here, this guide is going to help you pack more efficiently and effectively.

I’ve been nomadic for almost 7 years now and before that, I travelled a lot for work. In that time, I’ve taken packing from a haphazard night-before rush and turned it into a science.

Now I know exactly what constitutes a travel essential for men and what items have no place in a suitcase.

In fact, any time security opens my suitcase at the airport they look at me and say something like, “Wow. Impressive.” I nod and casually respond, “I travel full-time. It’s gotta be organised.”

In this (massive) guide, I’ll walk you through what’s in my suitcase and help you decide what should be on your travel packing list.

I also recommend my favourite travel gear, most of which is eco-friendly and vegan because I want my (and your) trips to be as earth-friendly as possible!

Read on for your guide to…

Travel Essentials for Men

Don’t miss our guides to travel gifts for men , travel essentials for women , and our complete guide to minimalist packing !

Travel packing, and travelling itself, is so much easier if you have the right suitcase or backpack for the job. So the first step in gathering your travel essentials is to assess your luggage situation. If you already have a serviceable bag, that’s great! Save money and the environment by using what you’ve got.

If not, then it’s time to figure out which travel bag is right for you.

What Kind of Luggage Do You Need?

Luggage is a personal thing, like underwear or hats. What’s right for you might be all kinds of wrong for the next guy.

You’re going to want to pick your luggage based on a few factors, like:

• Your travel style (luxury? backpacker? or somewhere in between?)
• Your fitness level (can you wander comfortably around a city carrying your bag on your back?)
• Your destination (you’re going to want a very different bag for a trip to New York than one to Cambodia)

If you are going to be mostly roughing it, staying in hostels, visiting rural areas, or doing almost anything in Southeast Asia, then a travel backpack is your best bet. It’s much easier to hop on a bus or a tuk tuk with a backpack and you’ll thank me when you’re making your way down cobbled streets, up multiple staircases, or through packed train stations.

On the other hand, if you plan to stay in upscale hotels, travel mostly to cities, or travel for work, a hard-sided suitcase wheelie is a better choice.

If your travel style is somewhere in between, a travel bag that converts from a suitcase to a backpack gives you the best of both worlds.

I travel with a hard-sided suitcase because it protects my stuff, both from my own carelessness and the rough treatment from baggage handlers and taxi drivers. Sometimes I wish it converted to a backpack as well, but those moments are rare.

What Size of Luggage Do You Need?

Most people think that you need more room in your suitcase the longer your trip is going to be. Totally not true. I pack almost the same amount of stuff for a week on the road or for a year.

For almost all travellers, I recommend a carry-on size bag around 35–40L. This is big enough to fit in all your essentials but not so big that you’re tempted to pack a hundred unnecessary extras that will weigh you down.

Plus, carrying a carry-on means you’re out of the airport faster than all those other fools who checked their bag (plus you saved some essential cash for beer).

The Travel Luggage We Recommend

I’m pretty rough on my gear, so I carry the Haupttstadtkoffer Alex 20 , a durable hard-sided suitcase. It took me years of experimenting to find it and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.

The best part is that when the wheels or handle breaks (as they inevitably do on wheelie luggage — especially if you’re a full-time traveller) I can order replacement parts from the manufacturer that are super easy to install. Because of that, this suitcase has lasted me far longer than any other piece of luggage I’ve owned before. Seriously.

If I had to trade it in, I would get the same suitcase Jane has. It’s the Standard Luggage convertible suitcase which is a soft-sided suitcase that quickly converts into a backpack.

My hard-sided suitcase is great in Europe but in Asia, I’m pretty jealous when Jane can just swing her bag over her back and take off down the dusty street or easily climb the seemingly endless stairs up to our guesthouse room.

If you need to select a new travel backpack or luggage, make sure to read our complete guide to the best minimalist backpacks for travel .

Alongside your suitcase, you’re going to need a small backpack that you can load up with your carry-on essentials for the plane and use as a daypack when you’re travelling.

Since we go so many places where pickpockets roam, I covet Standard Luggage’s Anti-Theft Daypack (Jane has one and it’s great). It has an RFID pocket for your passport, a laptop sleeve, lots of zippered compartments for keeping things organized, and a hidden zipper to foil thieves. It also looks nicer than your average backpack, meaning you can carry it almost anywhere without feeling like a bum.

If you’re the type of guy who gets dressed by rummaging through your laundry basket for the least smelly option, you might not need packing cubes.

For those of us who are not barbarians, packing cubes are almost as essential to travel as money and a passport.

Without packing cubes, you waste precious exploration time trying to find your stuff amidst a jumble of toiletries, shoes, and clothes in your suitcase. Packing cubes keep all this stuff organized so it only takes seconds to locate clean socks or your sunglasses when you need them.

Packing cubes also make unpacking easy when you get to your destination. Just grab the cubes, stick them on a shelf or in a drawer, and then you’re good to go.

Packing Cubes We Recommend

Back when I first started travelling, Eagle Creek packing cubes were just about the only ones available. My early packing cubes lasted through decades of travel. Sadly, they don’t make them like they used to. My newer Eagle Creek cubes are good but not as rugged as the old ones (but they are much lighter) and I have had a couple of zippers split after a couple of years of hard use.

These days there are tons of packing cubes out there and they all look pretty much the same.

Jane just got a set from Gonex that seem to be working well for her. Most cubes these days come in sets of 5 or 6, but you realistically only need a maximum of 4 medium ones to fit all your stuff in.

Sadly, we haven’t been able to find any widely available eco-friendly packing cubes. Great business idea for a budding entrepreneur!

What Should You Look for in Travel Clothes?

Trying to figure out exactly what you need and don’t need on any given trip can be a headache. After nearly 7 years of full-time travel, I’ve got my packing list pared down to the essentials. I wear every item in my suitcase on a regular basis and hardly ever find myself reaching for a piece of kit that’s not there.

When you start packing remember that every item you pack should be:

Comfortable — This is the top priority. Pants that pinch in the wrong places or shirts that leave you itchy and sweaty do not belong in your suitcase. But that doesn’t mean you just bring sweats and t-shirts either.

Stylish — Though your most comfortable clothes might be cargo shorts and old ratty t-shirts, there are lots of advantages to looking a little more presentable while travelling. The good thing is, there are plenty of men’s travel clothes that are comfortable and stylish at the same time.

Versatile — Never bring an item you can only wear for one specific occasion (unless, of course, you’re travelling to a wedding or something). Pants, shorts, and shirts should be versatile enough that they work on the street, on the beach, and for a dinner out.

Durable — Travelling is tough on clothes, so go for fabrics that won’t rip or stain easily. If you’re a bit messy, packing darker colours will help hide any BBQ sauce drips or trail dirt.

Of course, the type of trip and your travel style will make a huge difference to what you pack.

A Quick Travel Clothing Packing List

Start with these essential travel clothes:

3 or 4 quick-dry travel t-shirts — Like most guys, I wear t-shirts every day of my life. When travelling, that means I have to wash them out in the sink or shower every few days. Quick-dry shirts (these don’t have to be special tech material shirts, but shirts that simply dry quickly) make it easy to stay smelling good while you travel, and ensures they will be dry come morning.

If you’re in the market, Bluffworks makes a great anti-stink quick-dry t-shirt .

Long-sleeved button-up shirt — Sometimes a t-shirt just isn’t good enough. For these times, you need a great button-up shirt that will make you feel much more presentable and confident without sacrificing comfort. Try these ones from Bluffworks if wrinkle-free, quick-dry, and stylish sounds good to you.

2 pairs of awesome travel pants — Good travel pants for guys can be hard to find. They need to be comfortable enough to wear on the plane, durable enough for a hike or bike ride, and look good enough that they’re OK to wear out to a restaurant or bar.

I just got a pair of Kuhl Renegade Radikl Aktion pants that are perfect for rainy days out and about. They’re made with water resistant technical fabrics which makes them comfortable when I’m on my bike or out for a hike — even if it starts to rain. But, they look more like chinos than technical travel pants, so I can still wear them to dinner without feeling like a caveman.

Find out more about these and my other favourite travel pants in my post about the best men’s travel pants for your trip.

1 pair of travel shorts — If you’re going somewhere hot, you’ll definitely need a pair of shorts in your bag. You might even want to just bring one pair of pants and bring a couple of pairs of shorts. Like travel pants, travel shorts should look good enough to wear out in the evening but also be rugged enough for days on the beach.

Sweatshirt or sweater — Thick hoodies and bulky sweaters are out for travelling. They’re comfortable, yeah, but they just take up way too much space in your suitcase. Instead, bring a thin sweatshirt to layer over whatever else you’re wearing. If you get one in black with a zipper up the front, you’ll be able to wear it even on dressier occasions.

3–5 pairs no-hassle quick-dry travel underwear — For whatever reason, underwear for dudes always seems to be super thick, which means they take ages to dry and they’re not always that breathable. If you’re looking for sweat-wicking quick-dry travel underwear, check out the Ex-Officio line of breathable, quick-dry underwear. They might cost a little more but they’ll probably be your new favourite underwear.

Blazer or jacket — If you’re travelling for work or just want to up your style game at times, then a suit jacket is probably essential. While I don’t really need one in my profession as a yoga teacher, sometimes I’m tempted to carry the Bluffworks blazer , which is designed to be stuffed into the bottom of a backpack and come out looking great.

It’s also breathable, lightweight, and machine washable. If you want something slightly less formal, the Bluffworks field jacket is also very cool and totally versatile.

These are the men’s essential travel clothes we recommend

Bluffworks travel clothes — From quick-dry t-shirts and button-up shirts to wrinkle resistant pants and jackets, Bluffworks makes reliable and stylish men’s travel clothes. Pants and jackets come with hidden zippered pockets to keep your valuables safe while you travel. Also, if you need to look good on the road, invest in a Bluffworks travel suit, which is anti-wrinkle, breathable, and machine washable!

Find your new favourite travel clothes →

Prana and Columbia travel pants — These two make some of the most reliable men’s travel pants on the market. They are perfect for guys who want to hike, bike, rock-climb and be active when they travel. Many of their pants feature technical fabric with UPF (UV ray) protection, multi-way stretch, and zippered pockets.

Find some amazing travel pants →

Figuring out what shoes to pack for travel is one of the great mysteries of the universe.

Whatever travel shoes you pack, they need to cover almost every possibility, from walking miles along European city streets to hiking miles to the top of a volcano in Indonesia . It’s also nice to have a pair of shoes that will keep your feet cool in hot weather and a pair that doesn’t look terrible if you go out with friends (old or new).

After 7 years of full-time travel, I’ve settled on two essential pairs of shoes that I always need with me. Plus, I allow myself a bonus pair that is a luxury item for me.

The right travel shoes need to be:

Comfortable & worn in — This is the top priority. Don’t pack any shoes that you haven’t worn at least a half-dozen times. Getting a blister on holiday sucks. Don’t do it.

Versatile — Your main travel shoes should be ones you can wear almost anywhere without feeling like a total loser. Personally I take this to mean “no loud colours” but you be you.

Lightweight — When you’re walking more than 20,000 steps per day, every ounce counts. Lightweight shoes make things easier on your legs, ankles, and calves, while also helping you keep under those strict luggage weight limits.

These are the shoes in my suitcase

Lightweight walking shoes — If you want to go minimalist and only pack one pair of shoes, make them a pair of neutral-coloured ultra-comfortable lightweight walking shoes. I wear black Salomon XA Lite GTX shoes which they don’t make any more.

Next time I need shoes, I might try the Salomon Outbound hiking shoes which are waterproof, lightweight, and more stylish than your average trail shoe. They’re also non-leather, so no animals were harmed in their making!

Find your perfect adventure shoes →

Hot-weather sport sandals — My feet get hot, even in cold climates, so for Asia or hot summers anywhere, I need a pair of comfortable walking shoes that also have maximum airflow. I wear Keen Clearwater CNX which are lightweight, washable, and have enough support for city streets and medium intensity hikes.

Find your Keen sandals →

Luxury casual shoe — My last pair of shoes is not strictly essential and if I was packing ultra-minimalist, I wouldn’t bring them. But, since I travel full-time, I give over some carry-on space to a pair of casual street shoes.

I’ve been wearing Feiyue shoes since I discovered them on a trip to Shanghai several years ago. They are comfortable, have a vintage sneaker style, are small enough to pack easily — and they are the shoes Shaolin monks wear. How cool is that? (They even make a special Shaolin all-black version!)

Your choice of jackets really depends on where you’re going, what season you’ll be there, and how long your trip is.

On a tropical vacation, you might be able to get away with no jacket at all. For a winter trip, of course you’ll need something warm and packable.

Since I travel full time, my jackets need to cover all weather possibilities, from winter in northern Norway to wet season in Vietnam.

These are the two jackets I carry:

1. Packable insulated jacket — My North Face Thermoball jacket insulates me from the cold and is water repellent, keeping me warm and dry even in damp conditions. The jacket packs right into its own pocket, so when I’m not using it, it’s easy to stow away in my carry-on or suitcase. Plus, the insulation is synthetic, so no worries about the cruelty of down .

2. Lightweight rain jacket — When it gets really cold and wet outside, I bring out my lightweight rain jacket to add an extra layer of protection. I have the Showers Pass Men’s Elite 2.1, which is designed specifically for cycling, so is extremely waterproof and breathable. I love the under-arm zippers that give me extra breathability if I get too warm. If you’re not going cycling, try out the packable and waterproof North Face Venture 2 jacket or the Columbia Men’s Pouration jacket .

3. Ultimate travel blazer — If you’re going on a city trip, where you’ll be doing more bar crawling and less trail hiking, you can dress up your look with a blazer that’s specifically designed for travel.

The Bluffworks Gramercy Blazer is packable, machine washable, and wrinkle-resistant. It has a total of 7 inner pockets, some with zippers, some completely hidden, to keep everything safe, from your passport to your iPad (Seriously. That’s not a typo!). If you really want to step up your travel style game, you can also get the matching Gramercy pants .

Can’t be bothered reading the whole guide? No problem! Just go to our Amazon storefront where you can pick out your travel essentials all in one place.

Expert toiletry packing starts with the right toiletry bag. If you already have something serviceable, stick with it. But, if you’re looking for a new one, I highly recommend the Eagle-Creek Pack It Specter Tech toiletry kit . Jane got me this for Christmas about 5 years ago and it’s been the perfect addition to my suitcase.

While women tend to overpack when it comes to travel toiletries, men usually under-pack. It might be tempting to just throw your toothbrush in a bag and go. But, unless you rock an unreconstructed mountain man look, there are a few more things you’re going to need to keep feeling and looking your best while you travel.

Don’t forget the obvious stuff, like deodorant, a razor, toothpaste, floss, and a toothbrush.

Then consider packing these essential travel toiletries as well:

1. Bar soap and shampoo bar — We’re sick of the single-use plastic bottles that go along with shower soap and shampoo these days. Especially the little travel-sized ones, which are just a disaster for the environment. Instead, grab an all-natural bar of soap like Dr. Bronner’s All-One. I find that this works as soap and shampoo for me.

But if your hair needs a little extra help, grab a bar of shampoo, too. You can cut both in half and store them in a leak-proof mini tupperware container like I do. Leave the other half at home or keep it dry in your toiletry kit until you need it.

2. Lip balm with SPF — Another item a lot of guys don’t usually use, lip balm with SPF is a travel essential because during travel you’ll be exposed to a lot more sun, wind, and harsh conditions that you are at home. Dry, cracked, sunburnt lips are the perfect way to ruin your trip — so slap on that balm anytime your lips feel a bit dry.

3. Use anywhere moisturizer with SPF — Even if you don’t use moisturizer at home, travel can wreak havoc on your skin, leaving it dry and itchy. Bring a bottle of moisturizer with SPF that you can put on your face every morning and use as needed on other rough spots.

4. GoToob travel bottles — Instead of buying mini travel-sized toiletries, which are a rip-off and a waste of plastic, get a set of reusable GoToob travel bottles. These bottles are seriously dope. They never leak no matter how much I put them through.

5. Shaving oil — OK, this is probably only good for the less hairy dudes out there, like me. But, if you can’t really grow a full beard, shaving oil is genius. A small bottle will last you ages and you won’t need to carry shaving cream. How I had never heard of shaving oil before becoming a full-time traveller I don’t know.

One last note on toiletries. If you’re packing cologne, that’s fine, but dammit dudes, go easy. There’s nothing that turns people off faster than you smelling as though you’re just back from a swim in a vat of Eternity for Men.

If guys under-pack our toiletries, we also usually overpack when it comes to gadgets. What can I say? It’s a sickness!

The thing about packing too many gadgets is that they weigh a LOT. Plus, they cost a lot, meaning you’ll spend more time than is necessary worrying about people stealing your precious gear.

To prevent this, just stick to the bare essentials when it comes to travel gadgets:

• Phone & charger: Obviously the first and most important items. A good phone, set up properly, can be your compass, your map, your travel planner, your tickets, your entertainment and so much more. Don’t miss my list of essential travel apps below.
• Power adaptor: For frequent travellers or multi-continent trips, get a universal adaptor that can accept any kind of plug and be inserted into any kind of plug. If you’re just heading to a single destination, then a smaller adapter specific for that country makes more sense.

• Headphones: About a year ago I got a set of Sony noise cancelling headphones which I credit with keeping me sane while I travel. I wear them on the plane, in the airport, on busses, in crowds, and when I’m trying to get to sleep at night.
• Portable charger/power bank: Since phones are the new Leatherman (a million uses in one device), it’s pretty essential that you keep yours charged. Travel can use your battery more quickly, since you’ll be shooting videos and photos, listening to music, using maps and other apps, and probably watching videos more than normal. If you have any doubts about your phone battery’s lasting power, get a portable charger. I just got the RAVPower 18 W charger which is compact, charges super-fast and holds enough charge for two phones.

• Action camera: This is perfect for anyone who is going on an adventure and wants a video record to bring back home. I recently got the DJI Action Camera and it has transformed the way I shoot videos. The stabilization is incredible (even when I’m running it somehow manages to look smooth) and the huge wide angle is perfect for capturing all the action. It also takes a pretty great still shot when I need it to. Highly recommended!

The apps on my phone are as important as the device itself. These are my top 5 essential apps for travel:

1. Maps.me – This offline mapping app allows you to add your own pins. I add pins for my hotel, restaurants I want to visit, useful services like banks and laundry, and the must-see tourist attractions. With that done, I can confidently wander wherever I want and check back in with the map when I want to get unlost.

2. Apple Wallet or Android equivalent – Now that much of the world offers payment by tap, my Apple Wallet is an essential app. I love not having to take my real wallet out to pay for things, which greatly reduces the chances that I might lose it. Apple Wallet also stores all my travel documents (boarding passes, hotel confirmations, transport tickets) so I no longer have to keep track of a bunch of paper. Plus you can also toggle a switch within the app and use your phone to pay for public transport in many cities around the world without having to use your thumb or face to confirm the purchase.

3. Local metro app – If you’re travelling to a big city, make sure to get the local metro app. This will save you tons of time staring at the metro maps in the station trying to figure out how to get from A to B. It’ll also help you not look like a lost tourist, which reduces the chances of becoming a target for pickpockets or con artists.

4. WhatsApp – Everybody everywhere uses WhatsApp to keep in touch. Except China where you need WeChat. From contacting your Airbnb host to getting in touch with friends, WhatsApp is indispensable when travelling. Heck, it’s pretty much indispensable full stop.

5. Spotify – Remember when a thousand songs in your pocket was Earth-shattering? Now, you can bring your whole music library when travel! With apps like Spotify, you can listen to whatever, whenever, wherever. I use it every day.

Even though guys don’t have to worry about personal safety as much as our female friends, to prevent any unpleasant experiences, you should still be aware and prepared.

Start with these travel essentials for men.

Don’t leave home without travel insurance

If you ignore all the other advice on this list, make sure you don’t ignore this one tip:

Get travel insurance.

Lots of guys have an invincibility complex but shit happens, even to the luckiest of us.

Travel insurance is a small expense (usually about a dollar or two per day) to guard against bankruptcy in case the worst comes to the worst. It certainly came in handy that time I had to have elbow surgery in Germany after a simple fall off my bike. And Jane was happy to have it when she got malaria in Laos .

The good news is, we can recommend a couple of travel insurance companies that are great — reliable, inexpensive, and trustworthy. Their plans give you coverage for delayed or lost baggage, emergency medical treatments, trip interruption and more.

Plus, they both make it super-quick and easy to sign up so you can spend your time trip planning.

World Nomads — One of the most popular brands recommended by most of the pro travel bloggers we know, World Nomads provides reliable coverage for short and long trips.

SafetyWing — A new player in the market, designed especially for people who travel frequently or for long stretches at a time. You can sign up for the monthly plan and then cancel whenever you decided to go home.

Get a quote now.

Bring a travel-size first aid kit

Chances are, you’ll never need to use your first aid kit to save a life. But it’s damn handy to have around when you get minor cuts, blisters, food poisoning, or bug bites. Of course, if you ever do need to staunch a severe wound or survive in the wilderness overnight, you’ll need to write and thank me. For food poisoning make sure you pack some activated charcoal pills in the lot. Again, thank me later.

Common sense

Fact: Most travel injuries and disasters are caused by guys acting like total idiots. OK, I don’t have a study to prove it but life has taught me it’s true.

Try not to let your most testosterone-y self rule your every decision while you’re travelling. It’s A-OK to say “no thanks” to a challenge or to back down from an argument before it turns into a fight.

Also, if you’re in a foreign country and a woman who is way out of your league starts hitting on you, think twice. Some of the most common travel scams are focussed on single guys who are looking for some holiday action.

I’m not saying you should let fear be your guide but a healthy dose of caution is worth gold.

Refillable water bottle for every adventure

It’s almost 2020 and there is no excuse for single-use plastic water bottles in the world! Maybe carrying a refillable water bottle won’t solve the climate crisis but it can reduce your plastic consumption dramatically when you travel.

Finding a versatile and packable water bottle can be tricky though. 

That’s where the MODL utility bottle comes in — it is so much more than just a water bottle. It is designed for all your adventures, from climbing dramatic peaks to enduring endless flights and everything in between. 

MODL comes with a unique set of interchangeable lids and accessories, which transform it into a:

• Sport-top bottle
• Hands-free hydration pack
• Water filter
• Hand-held shower (yes, seriously!)
• And more to come…

It has an extremely tough silicone shell that folds in on itself to make it perfectly packable, is equipped with loops at either end so you can attach it to practically anything, and it opens at both ends to make cleaning super easy.

Plus, the MODL team keeps on creating — they’re currently working on new designs to expand the functionality even further.

This is a bottle you’ll love from day one and keep for a lifetime of adventures. 

See how MODL works →

Reliable earplugs

Sleeping well is the most important part of any trip. If you’re a light sleeper, you’ll want earplugs to drown out street noise, early morning roosters, chirping frogs, buzzing fridges and mosquitos, and babies crying next to you on the plane.

Bamboo cutlery set

Not only does having your own travel cutlery set save you from eating using bendy plastic forks, but it also prevents you having to use questionably clean cutlery at the street stall. And, of course, it’s way better for the world!

Jane and I have been carrying our To-Go Ware bamboo cutlery sets for more than 10 years now — think how many plastic forks that is!

Ergonomic eye mask

It might not be manly but trust me on this one. Usually, I can sleep pretty much anywhere but with an eye mask I can sleep literally anywhere!

Hat & sunglasses

When you travel you spend a lot more time outside than usual. A hat and sunglasses will stand between you and permanent UV damage when you travel. (Note to self: I should really get a hat.)

Leak-proof travel mug

Here’s another item to save the world and save you from having to drink coffee from a paper cup. If you’re a caffeine addict, bring a travel mug and use it every day. I love my Klean Kanteen coffee mug and have travelled with it non-stop for 7 years.

Small hand towel / handkerchief

I carry a handkerchief to use instead of paper towel. It saves trees, comes in handy to mop away sweat, and is useful in about a dozen other ways (yes, I am talking Bum Gun usage).

Travel is harder on your clothes than regular life, and you never know when a seam will split or a fabric will rip. My favourite shorts just got torn open on a rickety chair in Bali — my sewing kit has saved me from walking around with my boxers hanging out.

Now you’ve got all your gear together, the big question is, what goes in your carry-on to take on the plane, and what can you safely put away in your suitcase?

Here are the essentials for your carry-on luggage:

Passport & other ID — Obviously you won’t get far without this.

Earplugs — Whether your seatmate is a crying baby or a constant chatterer, earplugs are essential on the plane.

Noise-cancelling headphones — See above.

Eye mask — Flight crews always seem to turn on the lights just when you’re really falling asleep. Foil their evil plans with an eye mask.

Water bottle — Yes, even on the plane, you can say no to single-use plastic. I politely ask them to fill my water bottle when I run out.

All electronics and chargers — I never check my electronics. Baggage handlers can be rough, plus, you never know which gadget you’re going to need at 40,000 feet. Also, it’s the law now that any rechargeable battery must be in your carry-on.

Hand towel / handkerchief — Great for drying hands or mopping the sweat from your furrowed brow.

Snacks — Have you ever had a meal on the plane that was satisfying? Me neither. That’s why snacks are an essential carry-on item.

Toothbrush & toothpaste — Are you planning to meet a friend when you arrive at your destination? Brush your teeth before you meet them. They might not thank you but they also won’t recoil when you greet them.

Keeping your luggage light and nimble means leaving behind some of the more useless items you might be tempted to pack. Here are a few you should definitely leave at home.

Expensive clothes & shoes — Unless you’re travelling 5-star the whole way (In which case, why didn’t you get your assistant to read this post? And why don’t you sponsor our next year of travel? Email me!), expensive clothes and shoes are going to get ruined while you travel.

Either that, or you won’t take them out of the suitcase because you’re worried about them. So, just leave them at home. Instead, bring clothes that are designed to stand up to the rigours of travel.

An expensive SLR camera — Are you a photographer? Will you be doing anything with your travel photos other than sharing them on social media? If not, then you don’t need the latest SLR with six interchangeable lenses. This stuff is heavy, expensive, and a target for thieves. Leave it at home.

Laptop — Chances are you do not need your laptop when you travel. If it’s even an option, leave it at home! Having a laptop with you just adds weight to your suitcase and is an extra enticement for thieves. If you do NEED to work while you travel, or will be doing a lot of photo and video editing, then investing in a lightweight laptop is worth it.

Fancy watch — Nothing says “Hey pickpockets, come steal from this guy!”, quite like an expensive watch on your wrist. Leave the watch at home and look at your phone if you need to know the time.

Saying that each item on this list is essential for every man and every trip just doesn’t make sense. Essentials vary widely between each person travelling and each destination visited.

For example, for me, my Tempur-Pedic Travel Pillow is completely essential. But I didn’t put it on this list, because I doubt it’s essential for most of you.

So use my suggestions above as a starting point for you own travel essentials list. Then add and subtract items to make this list your own.

We hope you’ve found this guide to men’s travel essentials useful. Our goal is to help make your next trip into a transformational journey. With the right gear in your suitcase, you’ll be ready for any opportunity that arises. If you have any questions about this list, give me a shout on email or Instagram.

♥   Happy transformational travels, Jane & Stephen

We’re not going to lie, it takes a LOT of work to create travel guides like this. But it’s easy to help us out! If you book or buy something using one of our personal links in this post, we’ll earn a small fee at no extra cost to you. Of course, we would never recommend anything we didn’t 100% believe in! Huge thanks in advance! –S&J

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About Stephen Ewashkiw

Hi, I'm Stephen. I travel the world leading Adventure Yoga workshops and trainings. Plus I run My Five Acres with Jane. I've taught yoga in 25 countries and we've had adventures in more than 50! My goal is to empower you to decide who you want to be and what you want from life — and to help you cultivate the courage you need to to go get it.

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Complete Guide to Travel Essentials for Men [PDF Checklist]

This guide provides a detailed list of travel essentials for men, including documentation, clothing, and packing tips. It also explores how to stay updated while traveling off-grid or to remote areas by having a reliable power backup solution, ensuring you maintain navigation and connectivity.

Packing the right travel essentials for men  significantly enhances the comfort and success of a trip. A purposeful traveler expects to have the right items on hand to make a world of difference. Organizing essential items can smoothen your travel experience from immigration to accommodation. Men’s travel essentials should also be suited for varying seasons. If you are tech-savvy or traveling for work, charging your electronic devices can free you from the last-minute hassle.

The Jackery Portable Power Station  is a reliable and safe option for charging electronic devices while traveling. Whether you run out of power or wander in remote areas, the power station offers a charging solution in any scenario. As a traveler, you can keep your devices operating and use them for work or entertainment anytime.

Complete Travel Essentials for Men

Travel enthusiasts often prefer to visit multiple destinations which have different climates. In such cases, packing for a long trip can become stressful. Here is when a perfect travel essential list could be helpful. Before you start packing, you might need to consider a few instructions. This might include airport restrictions, bag sizes, bag weight, etc. There are mainly six types of travel essentials for men:

Documents: These include physical and digital copies of important documents such as passports, visas, ID cards, Driving licenses, travel insurance, etc. You can secure them in a waterproof travel wallet and have a digital copy as a backup.

Bags: A backpack keeps your belongings secure and organized while traveling. You can choose a bag compatible with your trip duration, build, style, and requirements.

Clothing: Along with style and fashion, practicality, sustainability, and versatility are the keys to clothing for travel.

Hygiene:  A compact and leak-proof toiletry kit for hygiene will help you stay fresh and clean on the go. This is a no-brainer; you should not consider how long you travel.

Electronics: For a tech-savvy traveler, the right electronics facilitate his travel experience by keeping him entertained and connected.

Extras: You must consider a few extra items and the core essentials. You might never know when you need a pen, a door lock, or some energy bars to rejuvenate.

Travel Essentials for Men: Documents

Whether on vacation, a corporate job, or a honeymoon with your partner, travel is one of the most important and economical activities. For a trip to become successful, well planning is crucial as it sees the light of the day. Packing the core essentials for a trip is vital, but you must be extra careful when packing your documents. You will often be asked for important documents no matter which mode or destination you consider. Here is a list of specific documents that you must carry wherever you go:

• Driving License
• Travel Insurance
• Identification Card
• Credit/Debit Card

Passport:  A passport is a must if traveling outside the country. Although a passport is optional if you are traveling in the country, it is safe to keep it handy as you never know when there might be a need for passport verification. One thing to ensure is that your passport should be valid for six months before the travel date.

Visa:  You must have a visa stamped on your passport when traveling outside the country. Some countries allow visas on arrival, so checking all the details beforehand is essential.

Driving License: If you are on a road trip with friends or live in a van, carry all travel-related documents, including a driving license, registration papers, pollution certification, and insurance documents.  

Travel Essentials for Men: Bags

Most men consider traveling with only one bag as all essential stuff is within arm’s reach. You can quickly move from place to place with one bag, but choosing a perfect one can sometimes be challenging. One must consider durability, price, and space while choosing a bag. Here is a list of all the bags you will need during travel:

• Packing cubes
• Toiletry pouch
• Ziplock bags

Size is an important consideration when shopping for the best travel backpacks. However, if traveling by air, it is essential to consider the airline regulations regarding size and dimensions. Secondly, you can opt for a front-opening backpack, as these unzip like a suitcase and prevent you from messing up. A good backpack brand with a good reputation is affordable. Online reviews recommended by customers might also be helpful when choosing the correct brand. Lastly, your backpack straps should be comfy to ensure your bag sits well and feels comfortable.

Travel Essentials for Men: Clothing

Style complements traveling, and traveling in style might also seem straightforward. But sometimes, reality can complicate the approach. Traveling may often demand long hours on airplanes or car rides, which may test your endurance and comfort. Along with good looks, style should prioritize comfort and versatility, and choosing the proper clothing for traveling is essential. The following list might help you select the correct set of clothing for traveling:

• Pair of pants
• Pair of shorts
• Polo Shirts
• Sweatshirt/Hoodie
• Waterproof Jacket
• Running Shoes

Choose bright and dark clothes: Dark and bright-colored clothes should be preferred for a travel wardrobe. If you stick with this theme, you can wear one pair of bottoms with every single T-shirt and button-down.

Fabric: Artificial leather is usually not considered ideal for flying. Instead of pleather, you can choose a soft fabric like cotton or cashmere. It not only looks good but is equally cozy and comfortable. The material you choose shouldn’t be itchy but good against your skin.

Carry your Shirts: Sometimes, a t-shirt cannot provide the sense of style that a button-down can. Shirts are equally thin and stylish and take up space similar to t-shirts. You can pair your shirt with long pants or shorts and sneakers.

Functionality: Usually,   the mode and purpose of traveling define the functionality. Travelers can either travel for leisure or business. Business travelers can choose wool or cashmere, whereas leisure travelers can be more flexible.

Travel Essentials for Men: Hygiene

You might often feel tired of rummaging your bag for a toothbrush; in that case, a toiletry bag can be a savior. A toiletry bag keeps your hygiene products organized and safe. Choose a waterproof material to protect your toiletries from spill damage and secure them during transit. Keep these toiletry essentials whenever you're traveling:

• Shampoo and Body wash
• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Disposable Razor
• Shaving lotion
• Nail Clippers

Shaving soap: You can purchase a travel-safe shaving soap to avoid buying a new can of shaving cream whenever you go to a new destination.

Hand towel: A hand towel is much more eco-friendly and sustainable than paper towels and tissues. You can use it to pat your dry face or wipe off sweat.   

Disposable Razor: For your toiletry bag, it is better to consider a disposable razor than an electronic one. If it is lost, the replacement cost will be less. To use it for a prolonged period, dry the blades on a towel instead of using water.

Travel Essentials for Men: Electronics

Most men are tech-savvy, and the latest technology allows you to choose your favorite kind of entertainment during your journey. It is essential to keep a small battery backup  to support your electronics. Speakers and noise-cancellation headphones can be valuable if you enjoy listening to music, watching a movie, or listening to a podcast.  These travel electronic essentials are a no-brainer for a male traveler:

• Travel apps installed on the phone
• Portable Power Station
• Noise cancellation Headphones

A portable power station like the Jackery Portable Power Station is the most reliable and safe option for powering up your electronic devices during travel. It is equipped with an in-built inverter for convenience and efficiency. The Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station and Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station are lightweight products that can be transported in a backpack. These can charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Travel Essentials for Men: Extras

Beyond choosing the proper outfit and accessories, one might skip packing miscellaneous items as important as core essentials. These extras include:

• Portable door lock
• Reusable Water Bottle
• Compression Socks
• Travel Pillow

Compression socks: For long flights, compression socks can help improve circulation and reduce the risk of swelling.

Noise-Canceling Headphones:  These can be a game-changer by blocking the ambient noise and allowing for relaxation.

Snacks:  Healthy snacks can help maintain energy levels and avoid reliance on overpriced options.

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Jackery Portable Power Stations for Men’s Travel

With around 3 million global sales units, Jackery stands out for R&D and sustainability of renewable energy. Until now, Jackery has saved around 590 million kWh 3 of electricity worldwide. The Jackery Portable Power Station comes with 12 layers of protection, nine temperature sensors, and a high shock resistance level. It is light in weight with a compact shape and can be carried across easily while traveling.

With the Jackery Portable Power Station, you can power up most of your travel electronics essentials, such as a phone, camera, speakers, watch, and power bank. It is an emergency power backup and a travel companion for RV living and camping. It has an AC outlet, DC carport, and USB charging ports to charge multiple devices. A Jackery Solar Generator  combines a portable power station with solar panels to collect solar energy, transform it into electrical energy, and charge appliances.

Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station

You do not need to worry about charging your devices when you have the Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station. During the daytime, you can recharge it with the Jackery SolarSaga Solar Panels  and power your electronic devices while traveling. This easy-to-carry device is lightweight and stylish and can power small devices like drones, cameras, mini coolers, etc. It can fit easily in a backpack and be carried along while traveling.

Here are the working hours of a few electronic devices using the Jackery Explorer 300 Portable Power Station:

• Drone (90 W): 2.8 H
• Motion Camera (5 W): 50 H
• MacBook (30 W): 8.3 H
• Smartphone (18 W): 13.9 H

Customer Review

“I bought this for camping. It worked great to keep everything charged and allowed me to use my heated blanket when it got too cold. It recharged in my car while we drove around to trails during the day.” -- MP

Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station

The Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station is a lightweight product and can be carried in a backpack and even when traveling by air. It is emission-free and has a solar conversion efficiency. It can charge three devices at the same time, including a laptop, iPad, AirPods, etc. It weighs 965 grams and places portable power in the palm of your hand.

Here are the working hours of a few electronic devices using Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station:

• Drone (90 W): 0.9 H
• Motion Camera (5 W): 1.7 H
• MacBook (30 W): 2.8 H
• Smartphone (18 W): 4.7 H

“This is an excellent item to pack for a weekend trip. It charges your phone and runs a fan or radio. It's great for camping and emergencies. It's also great for charging a tablet if you are a vendor at a craft show or flea market.” -- Brian Johnson

What Not to Pack For A Men’s Travel?

It is as important to consider what not to bring as it is to consider the core essentials while packing for traveling. Packing bright and light is advisable as it looks more luxurious than stuffing your bag. Here are some items that you should leave behind:

• Bulky gadgets
• Too many clothes
• Large sized toiletries
• Heavy magazines
• A bathing suit
• Expensive jewelry

One should keep their valuables safe when traveling through local markets or trains. Almost every hotel has laundry services, so you do not need to carry an iron. Also, if you prevent your clothes from wrinkles, consider rolling them instead of folding them while packing. Instead of carrying large bottles of lotions and shampoo to travel sustainably, buy a biodegradable soap or have your skin care kit in small travel boxes.

Packing Tips for Men's Travel Essentials

Regarding men traveling, packing efficiently for a trip is an art or science. Whether going on a business, leisure, or adventure, having the right travel essentials can save you time and make a significant difference in your travel. Here are some essential tips to help you master the art of packing:

Choose The Correct Luggage Size: If traveling by air, confirm the luggage details with the airline. Although not all airlines have the same policies, a standard bag dimension should meet most carry-on limits. Always choose a bag that can work for all purposes.

Pack Light and Right:  If traveling for business, you should aim to pack light. A few mix-and-match pieces work for adventure trips. If you are going on a weekend trip, you may only require one jacket, two pairs of trousers, and footwear.

Create A Packing Checklist: Travel enthusiasts advise that packing several weeks in advance can leave you stress-free at the last moment, and a packing checklist is necessary. You can also divide your items into essentials and non-essentials. Sometimes, keeping it plain and simple is the real luxury.

Choosing Versatile Clothing Pieces: Go for neutral colors that can be mixed and matched easily. Lightweight fabrics are wrinkle-resistant and can be dried quickly for easy maintenance.

Travel Essentials for Men FAQs

What size of power station do i need for men’s traveling.

Power stations have built-in inverters, making them a perfect mixture of power, convenience, and durability. When determining the power station size, it's essential to consider the number of devices charging and the number of hours.

For example, the Jackery Explorer 100 Plus Portable Power Station can charge a drone (90 W) and motion camera (5 W):

Working Time = Capacity in Wh × 0.85 / Operating wattage of the appliances.

So, Working time = 99 Wh × 0.85 / 95 W = 0.88 H.

Note: Since there will be some power loss while powering appliances, we have multiplied the battery capacity by 0.85.

What do men need when traveling?

While traveling, men can consider creating a packing list of all the essentials to avoid last-minute stress. A core essentials list includes a sturdy backpack, a set of comfortable clothes, a hygiene kit, and a few gadgets.

What should a man pack for two weeks?

Travel essentials for men include clothing layers, two pairs of bottoms, nightwear, a polo t-shirt, shoes, toiletries, medication, and essential gadgets.

What is 5 4 3 2 1 packing for guys?

Five sets of underwear or socks, four button-ups or T-shirts, three pairs of trousers, two pairs of shoes, and one preferred accessory.

What is the most essential item you need when you travel overseas?

The proper clothing, snacks, medication, documents, visa and passport, and reusable water bottles are essential items one shouldn’t miss when traveling overseas.

Final Thoughts

It is crucial for any man who wants to enhance his traveling experience to know the right travel essentials and pack them efficiently. By concentrating on the correct travel essentials packing list for men,  including important documents, suitable dressing, and power backup such as Jackery Portable Power Stations, one can make sure they are always prepared for every situation with convenience and comfort. To travel easily, one should remember to carry very little and wisely because it helps reduce the number of items in your luggage and, thus, fewer things to worry about during your journey.

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Essential Printable Packing List Guy Version: Travel Checklist for Men

A couple of years ago, I created an Essential Printable Packing List for Women . I had no idea then just how awesome it would be and how often it would come in handy for later trips. I’ve printed the document out countless times since then and often keep a copy on my phone for packing for the return trip. This travel checklist became such a staple for me that I started to encourage Frans to use it for when he traveled. But, before he would actually use it, I had to tweak it — thus creating a travel checklist for guys.

Since the list I first made was tailored to the needs of most female travelers, he was reluctant to use it at first. Just the sight of “bras” and “makeup remover” made it hard for him to use it. Plus, you know, guys… While Frans isn’t one of those men that refuse any help for things such as asking directions or following instruction manuals, he does have a bit of stubbornness to him. So, after subtle prodding and editing the packing list to fit his needs, he finally agreed to use it. Now, we print him a copy of “his” packing list for every business trip he goes on.

Printable Travel Check List for Men

So, that’s how this new Essential Printable Packing List for Men came to be. I switched out some of the items to “guy stuff” and changed the color scheme to one that’s a bit less feminine. You can click this link or the image below to download the full-size printer-friendly PDF file. Or, you can save it to your cell phone for the trip back.

Feel free to use this convenient Essential Printable Packing List for Men for your travels too. Click this link or the image below to download the PDF file. If you save it to your mobile device, open it and take a screenshot to have the list handy for your trip back.

Using the Packing List for Men / Travel Check List for Guys

Now, don’t expect your man to use this travel packing list right away and without any resistance. I suggest that you first let him get all his things together without any reminding or nagging. Then, before he puts the items in his suitcase, encourage him to use this list, “just in case,” to make sure he didn’t forget anything. It could be that he actually meant to bring something but left it in another room of the house. Wouldn’t want to go on his trip and remember his underwear was sitting on the sofa at home, would he?

Again, I left a few spots to add extra items to the travel checklist that your husband/boyfriend/friend might personally use but are not listed. He can also add other things such as passports, sunglasses, etc. (whatever he tends to forget). If he’s traveling during certain seasons or plans to participate in specific activities, he might also want to list any gear he might need (hiking, skiing, snorkeling supplies).

For the jet-setting ladies, don’t forget to download your Essential Printable Packing List for Women too!

TerriAnn van Gosliga is the main writer at Cookies & Clogs . Born & raised in the SF Bay Area but loves to travel. She's been married to her best friend for 20 years, used to homeschool her 19-year-old daughter before she started a public high school/college program, and has an accident-prone lab mix dog.

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One Short Trip

Packing Guide For Men

I have tried my best to make a packing list for men that covers everything such as Luggage, Clothing, Business Attire, Toiletries, Health Kit, Entertainment Gadgets, Documents etc.

Try to carry things based on the 

• Number of days
• Purpose of visit 
• Weather condition
• Destination Type… etc

Travel Packing List For Men

Bag , Clothes & Footwear

• Rolling Luggage / Duffel Bag / Backpack
• Boxers and Underwear 
• Cotton Undershirt / Vest 
• Scarves and gloves 
• Sweatshirts/jacket 
• Jeans/Chinos 
• Sandals/flip flops 
• Casual running shoes
• Toothbrush & Toothpaste 
• Shave Soap or Cream 
• Shaving Brush 
• Shower Gel or Body Wash 
• Shampoo and Conditioner 
• Hair and Beard Wax 
• Face & Body Moisturizer with SPF 
• Glasses and Glasses Case, Contact Lens / Contact Lens Cleaner
• Cell phone 
• SmartWatch 
• Headphones / Earphones 
• Hotspot Device 
• Travel Adapter / Spike Buster 
• Power Bank 
• Flash Light 
• Off-grid GPS Tracker
• Bluetooth Speaker 
• Portable Hard Drive 
• Laptop & Charger 
• Camera & Charger 
• Extra Battery 
• Memory Card & Card Reader 
• Camera Accessories

First Aid & Medicine

• Hand Sanitizer 
• Cotton balls 
• Adhesive bandages 
• Sterile Gauze Pads 
• Antibiotic Cream 
• Insect Repellent Cream 
• Nasal congestion 
• Sore throat 
• Skin problems 
• Gastrointestinal problems 
• Indigestion 
• Dehydration
• Credit Card / Debit Card 
• Money / Forex Card 
• Passport & Visa  
• Driver’s license & Other ID Proof 
• Medical Prescriptions 
• Plane Tickets 
• Accommodation Booking details 
• House & Car Keys 
• Sunglasses 
• Aluminium Water Bottle
• Reading & Writing Material 
• TSA Approved Luggage Lock 
• Cigarette Lighter 
• Zip Lock Bags
• Pocket Umbrella
• Victorinox Swiss Card / Swiss Knife 
• Safety Pins 
• Pocket Blanket 
• Inflatable Travel Pillow & Sleep Mask

Business Attire 

• Suit or blazer 
• Dress shirts 
• Dress Pants and Slacks 
• Dress Shoes & Socks

Below listed are a few important links that would help you on your short trip

Travel Packing Checklist Trekking Guide & Trekking Packing List  Packing Guide For Women Things To Know

• Discover the Joy of Minimalist Travel: The Ultimate Carry-on Packing List for Men

This article may contain links to products and services we use and recommend. We may receive compensation when you click on links to those products. For more information, see our Disclosure Policy .

Download your Sustainable Travel Checklist and show the world you care

Luggage and organisation, travel pack / packing cubes, assessing ethical and sustainable brands, head, neck and hand protection, accessories, minimalist travel wardrobe and carry-on packing list summary, do you love to run while exploring new destinations, author: paul ryken.

Whether you pack for a two-week vacation or a year-long backpacking trip around the world, you don’t need more than carry-on luggage. How would I know? I have done it all – from giant suitcases and 70-litre backpacks to full-time carry-on travel for the past 7+ years. All my learnings are in this guide – from practical tips to travelling light to the ultimate carry-on packing list for men . Join me and experience the freedom of minimalist travel.

If you’re female, head over to our carry-on packing list for women , where Sandra shares her learnings from over 7+ years of carry-on only travel. And if you love to go for a run while travelling, we also have a running gear packing list for you.

As travellers, we should all be aware of our travel behaviour and its environmental, economic and social impact; and make conscious decisions about it. Too often, we hear negative stories in the media about tourists behaving badly.

Here is your chance to tick some boxes and check out what it really takes to travel with a sustainable mindset.

The fine print: I agree to receive the Minimalist Journeys newsletter full of news, actionable tips and practical advice every month. I know I can unsubscribe at any time. I have read and agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .

By the way, this article prepares you for travel in any season and any weather. If your trip takes you into the Tropics, you may not need a down vest or extra-warm hoodie . Likewise, if you go skiing in Canada , you may need a few extra layers (but may want to leave your sandals and swimwear at home). Use common sense, and check the weather at your destination if unsure.

If you don’t have carry-on luggage yet, check out our guide to find the carry-on travel pack that’s right for you. Below are the luggage and organisational items I currently carry with me, or – if an item is no longer manufactured and available for sale – what I would purchase if I had to replace it today.

I started our minimalist journey with a Tortuga V2 travel pack which lasted almost seven years – fraying seams ended up being its demise. When it came to replacing it, I had a look at the new Tortuga models (materials and manufacturing of lightweight carry-on travel packs has improved significantly since my first travel pack was made), but in the end, the Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Backpack best met my needs.

To maximise the use of space in my travel pack, I purchased the packing cubes specifically designed to fit the Tortuga V2 . They are still going strong and also fit into my Matador travel pack . However, if I had to replace them today I would go with the Matador packing cube set.

Matador Freerain22 Daypack

Matador GlobeRider45 Travel Backpack

Matador Packing Cube Set 3-Pack

Sandra and I share a daypack , and we’ve always travelled with one that is ultralight and packable . We use it as a personal item on the plane, as a daypack on hikes and around the city, and to carry our technical gear when we work in a library or cafe. We even carry heavy groceries in it from time to time, supplementing our Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Shopping Bag (also shared).

We initially purchased a Tortuga daypack in 2016. It got a lot of use, but the seams needed to be stitched up over and over. A year later, we purchased the Matador Daylite 16 (no longer manufactured), which lasted about two years. This time, the main compartment zipper was the weak point. As we liked the ultra-lightweight, yet durable material, we stayed with Matador – purchasing the Matador Freerain24 (also no longer manufactured). Serving us well for four years, in the end, its mesh side pockets started to disintegrate.

We have experienced first-hand how Matador products have improved over the years, and why change if you’re onto a good thing. Our current ultralight daypack is the Matador Freerain22 .

Corkor Minimalist Cards Sleeve Wallet

Osprey Ultralight Large Packing Cube

Sea to Summit Ultra-Sil Dry Bag

You need something to store your cash and cards. I usually only carry notes, two cards (my driver’s licence and a credit card) and a few business cards (you never know who you’re bumping into). Sandra carries a coin purse, so I don’t need to worry about change. For that reason, my wallet doesn’t need to be huge.

My first minimalist wallet, the Dash RFID 4.0 , lasted six years. Unfortunately, I have not been able to source a sustainability policy statement from the manufacturer of the Dash Wallet. So, when it came to replacing it, I looked for a completely different brand and ended up with the Corkor Minimalist Credit Card Wallet (Cards Sleeve). I’ve had it now for a year, and am very happy with it.

I only own three pairs of footwear, and the ones I’m not wearing go into my travel pack. Especially my running shoes get smelly, so I wanted to have a bag specifically for my shoes. I’m a US size 12, and all lightweight shoe bags I looked at were too small. I ended up buying a packing cube instead: the Osprey Ultralight Large Packing Cube , which fits my running shoes and sandals perfectly.

I use my waterproof stuff sack mostly to store dirty laundry, but also on occasion to (temporarily) store wet clothes and as extra protection for our valuables in pouring rain – just to be on the safe side.

We carefully evaluate gear and business tools for their quality and longevity, but we also prioritise products made with ethical and sustainable practices. Discover how manufacturers are reviewed for their sourcing and production methods by exploring our trusted resources.

My clothes are predominantly made of merino wool. I’ve driven past the green fields in Australia and New Zealand where the sheep graze and the wool is grown, and I feel good about buying my items from companies that embrace sustainability .

Below are the clothes I currently wear on my travels (no matter the location or climate), or – if they are no longer manufactured and available for sale – what I plan to replace them with when they’ve reached their end of life.

How many pairs of underwear do you think you need? We travel with seven pairs each. This way, we only need to wash once a week.

• I wore ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs for the first 5 years of our minimalist journey. I had chosen ExOfficio based on overwhelmingly positive reviews on various travel forums, and I was very happy with them. While the ExOfficio Give-N-Go Boxer Briefs were very comfortable, when it came to replacing them, I was looking for a bit more support and my preferred material: merino.
• After trialling a pair of Unbound Merino Boxer Briefs in May 2021, I was hooked. These briefs are very supportive around the entire frame and down the legs, allowing movement while still keeping things in place (you can read my full review here ). I’ve now worn Unbound Merino Boxer Briefs for several years and couldn’t be happier.

Mitch Dowd Mens Bamboo Sleep Short

Patagonia Men’s Hydropeak Boardshorts

Unbound Merino Boxer Briefs

According to Men’s Health , 31% of Americans sleep fully clothed and 52% partially clothed. While I’m not American, I belong to the majority. I sleep in a pair of Mitch Dowd Mens Bamboo Sleep Short year-round.

Swimwear is like a jacket – the good ones last for years. I bought my Maki del Caribe boardshorts from a shop in the Dominican Republic in 2012, and they’ve still got a few years in them. I can’t find them online, so if I had to replace them today, I would purchase the Patagonia Hydropeak Boardshorts .

I only own three pairs of socks (not including my running socks). As I replace them annually, I’ve had the opportunity to test a lot of different brands and models, from Icebreaker and Macpac to Unbound Merino , Smartwool and now Fox River . Out of the bunch, I like the Smartwool and Fox River socks the most.

Fox River Basecamp 2.0 Lightweight Quarter Crew Hiking Sock

Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Mountain Range Pattern Crew Socks

Smartwool Hike Light Cushion Pattern Ankle Socks

Layering (especially with merino garments) allows you to travel light in any season. My current layers are:

• T-Shirts: I travel with three t-shirts, all are Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-Shirts , which are 100% Merino. I can wear each of them three to four days in a row without smelling, even in tropical climates. No cotton or polyester shirt would last that long. I have worn Icebreaker , Macpac and even Allbirds over the years (yes, they don’t only make shoes), but Unbound Merino t-shirts (with merino wool sourced from Australia ) are hands-down the best quality t-shirts I’ve come across to date.
• Hoodie: After years of wearing Merino hoodies and zipper jackets from Icebreaker and Macpac (and experiencing increasing prices but deteriorating quality), I purchased the Unbound Merino Compact Travel Hoodie . Given my pants are all black (more on that below), I chose Sahara as a colour.
• Down Vest: I used to travel with an Unbound Merino Men’s Merino Tank Top and an Unbound Merino Long Sleeve Crew Shirt (in addition to my t-shirts and hoodie/zipper jacket) but found that was too warm for me. So, now I wear an additional outer layer instead on cold days. My down vest is ultra-light and fits into a little sack not much larger than my hand.
• Rain Jacket: Given this was to be my only jacket, it had to be ultra-light, breathable, durable, come with adjustable cuffs and look stylish. After quite a bit of research, I settled on the Marmot Nano AS Jacket , which lasted over three years (though it did require treatment with a waterproofing spray to maintain its water-repellent properties every now and then). For the past four years, I’ve worn a Marmot Eclipse Jacket . The jacket is no longer manufactured. If I had to replace it today, I would purchase the Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket . It has the same waterproofness as the Marmot Eclipse (20,000mm) and almost identical weight (400g).

Macpac Men’s Uber Light Down Vest

Patagonia Men’s Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket

Unbound Merino Crew Neck T-Shirt

Unbound Merino Men’s Compact Travel Hoodie

Some people like to wear pants with zip half legs, I don’t. I travel with two long pants and two pairs of shorts – all black so that my wardrobe matches: black pants with a coloured top:

• Shorts: I used to own two pairs of black Columbia Silver Ridge Cargo Shorts, purchased in September 2017. I had used the same model in a lighter colour when I travelled around the Americas in our first year of full-time travel, but over time, they showed stains despite regular washing – hence the swap to black ones. In June 2024, I purchaed the Patagonia Mens Quandary Shorts as I was so impressed with the pants version.
• Long Pants: I wear shorts as much as I can, but for colder days, I have two lightweight pairs of long pants. I wore the same two Columbia Mens Silver Ridge Utility Pants for six years. They are very durable yet look smart enough to wear on date nights and formal occasions (including weddings). That said, when it came to replacing them, I swapped to Patagonia Men’s Quandary Pants which look even better.

Patagonia Mens Quandary Pants

Patagonia Mens Quandary Shorts

I’m not one to cover up my head unless it is really sunny or really cold. The two headgear items I have, cover all eventualities:

• Buff Merino Lightweight Neckwear during summer, especially when I’m out hiking. I also use it as a neck warmer in winter.
• Icebreaker Unisex Merino Pocket Beanie in winter and during my morning runs whenever it gets below 6 degrees Celsius. It keeps my head nice and toasty but lets the moisture out.

On really cold days, I also wear my Smartwool Liner Gloves .

Buff Merino Lightweight Neckwear

Icebreaker Unisex Merino Pocket Beanie

Smartwool Liner Gloves

A good pair of shoes can improve your quality of life, prevent injuries and support bone and muscle growth. So, don’t skimp on shoes (quality, that is, not quantity). I only own three pairs of shoes – hiking shoes, sandals and running shoes (which are included in my running gear packing list ):

• Hiking shoes: The first few years of our life on the road, I wore Salomon X Ultra LTR GTX (three pairs in 4 years). In 2021, as I swapped to minimalist running , I also changed to minimalist hiking shoes (or boots to be more precise), the Xero Shoes Xcursion Fusion . I went with the boots as these were the only waterproof Xero Shoes at the time. As Xero Shoes added new waterproof models, and I prefer hiking shoes over boots, I replaced the Xcursion Fusion with the Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP in 2023.
• Sandals: In addition to my shoes, I needed a pair of footwear for warmer climates (and the beach) and to protect my feet from athlete’s foot when using communal showers. I was looking for something lightweight yet durable and initially purchased the Xero Shoes Aqua Cloud sandals . They were minimalist, but I ended up constantly (re-)adjusting the straps. Still, I liked the concept of the Xero Shoes footwear and replaced the Aqua Cloud with Xero Shoes Z-Trek sandals in September 2017 – which I still wear today.

Xero Shoes Mesa Trail WP

Xero Shoes Z-Trek

My technology list covers non-business items – items a normal traveller would carry on a longer trip. All of our technology items are best of breed for our purposes. If you’re after the technology and tools we use and recommend for digital nomads, check out our small (remote) business resources .

Sandra and I share both the Nitecore battery pack and OneAdaptr OneWorld135 .

I wear my headphones (almost) every day, listening to podcasts and audiobooks on aeroplanes, trains and buses but also on my morning runs. My headphones are the Jabra Elite 8 Active . They weren’t cheap but included several features I was looking for:

• Waterproof (including a warranty against sweat damage);
• Long-lasting battery (more than four hours of playtime, coupled with a portable charging case);
• Microphone (so that I can also use them on calls); and
• Fit my ears while I run (they come with four different-sized covers, ensuring a snug fit).

In our first year of full-time travel, we carried a strong yet ultra-light flashlight. We sold it as we didn’t use it (often enough), only to realise that we did need a (hands-free) light (on multi-day hikes , in dimly lit caves, etc). Thus, we are now travelling with a Nitecore NU25 400L Headlamp .

Jabra Elite 8 Active

Nitecore NB10000 Gen2 Energy Brick

Nitecore NU25 400L Headlamp

OneAdaptr OneWorld135 International Adapter

Samsung Galaxy A54 5G

Apart from a Coconut Matter Deodorant, I carry

• a Merkur 46C Travel Safety Razor and shaving soap (which I keep in my Matador Flatpak™ Soap Bar Case );
• a Groom Mate Platinum XL Plus Nose Hair Trimmer (which I also use to trim unruly eyebrows);
• a bamboo toothbrush (which is protected by a Matador Toothbrush Cap made from silicone) and toothpaste; as well as

I always stay within the 100ml allowance for carry-on (obviously), and use zero waste products where possible. I keep my toiletries in a small Sea To Summit Travelling Light Hanging Toiletry Bag . 

Coconut Matter Deodorant

Groom Mate Platinum XL Plus Nose Hair Trimmer

Matador Flatpak™ Soap Bar Case

Matador Toothbrush Cap

Merkur 46C Travel Safety Razor

Sea to Summit Hanging Toiletry Bag

Apart from our (shared) Klean Kanteen Wide Water Bottle , my Hammamas Towel , my Rudy Project Rydon Sunglasses and my UCO Titanium Spork , I also carry: our (shared) first aid kit, a travel clothes line , a reusable face mask and two Samsonite TSA 3-Dial Cable luggage locks (for the rare occasion I do need to check in my travel pack).

Hammamas Towel

Klean Kanteen 27 oz Wide Water Bottle with Loop Cap

Rudy Project Rydon Sunglasses

Samsonite TSA 3-Dial Cable Lock

UCO Titanium Spork

If that was a lot to take in, don’t worry, I’ve collated all of it into the list below. In addition to the below, I also travel with

• my running gear for travellers – not everyone runs, so it was not appropriate to list them here; and
• technology gear I use as a digital nomad – again, not everyone travels with a laptop or drone.

If you’re neither a runner nor a digital nomad, you’ve got even more space in your travel pack.

Packing the right running gear is crucial to maintaining your routine on business or leisure trips. As a seasoned runner, I’m always on the lookout for the best minimalist gear to make travel runs seamless and enjoyable. Got any recommendations or tips for the ultimate packing list ? Share your insights and help fellow runners optimise their travel kit.

And before you go: If you liked my article and found it helpful, I would appreciate it if you could share it with your friends and family via the Share buttons below. Even better: Leave a short review on Trustpilot or Google , which would help us further build our online reputation as a (trustworthy and helpful) travel and lifestyle blog.

The Complete 2-Week Europe Packing List

Last Updated on November 15, 2023

by Maggie Turansky

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

Putting together a 2-week Europe packing list can prove incredibly difficult regardless if it’s your first trip to the continent or if you are a seasoned traveller.

Especially if you’re trying to travel light and minimalistically, prioritising things for your trip to Europe can be a bit tricky. We have travelled extensively all over Europe and have refined this ultimate packing list in order to ensure that you have everything you need, but also not too much!

So if you’re after the perfect packing list for Europe, then look no further. We’re here to make sure that you’re perfectly well-equipped for your trip without bringing one item too many in your limited space!

Table of Contents

Europe Packing Tips

Before I jump right into what you actually need to pack for Europe, we do need to discuss a few things in order to ensure that you are completely prepared to leave on your trip to Europe.

One of the most important things to be aware of is the season where you’re travelling, along with the region. Europe is vast with an array of varied climates and what you need to bring to be prepared largely depends on where and when you are visiting.

What you eventually end up taking with you really inevitably comes down to if you’re visiting Europe in winter or summer, northern or southern Europe.

Another thing to keep in mind when you’re planning out a packing list for visiting Europe is just how much you plan to bring with you.

It can be really hard to know what you’ll need or use on your trip, especially if you haven’t travelled much in Europe before. However, it is always a great idea to try to limit the amount of stuff you cart around with you.

Packing light can be a lot more pleasant in almost every aspect of travelling, from not having to worry about the weight limits on airlines or hauling your bags up stairs, through train stations and luggage racks.

Packing light also has the added benefit of making your things a lot easier to pack up and move when you move destination. It is unlikely that you will plan to stay in just one location on your trip and you don’t want to have to unpack and repack a bunch of different things every few days – not only is this simply a pain, it can also be very stressful.

The packing list below is quite minimalist, however, in times of travelling for similar-length trips to Europe, I’ve found that it is beyond sufficient.

When it comes to selecting items of clothing, especially, try to stray away from anything that you cannot mix and match and, often, opting for darker colours can be a great option.

Thinking more in the mindset of bringing a small capsule wardrobe rather than individual outfits to wear will help you be able to pack light while also mixing and matching to create a new look every day.

The other tip when it comes to packing light is to find accommodation that offers laundry facilities. Planning to do a wash while on the road will allow you not to have to bring so many things considering the fact that you can do a load of laundry mid-way through your trip.

Many hotels and hostels offer laundry services or, alternatively, you could find an Airbnb that has a washing machine you could use yourself. Laundromats are also always an option, though I can’t imagine it’s the preferable option considering the limited amount of time you have when it comes to exploring Europe.

Finally, when it comes to bringing items such as a hairdryer, curling iron or straightener, I would recommend refraining from this.

The vast majority of accommodations will have at least a hairdryer on-site and, especially if you’re travelling to Europe from North America, the voltage in the plugs is completely different and you risk completely ruining your devices should you use them, even if you are using an adaptor.

All in all, there are a number of things that one needs to take into consideration when figuring out what to pack for Europe. Follow the guidelines below and you should be perfectly well-equipped for your trip!

Ultimate Packing List for Europe

This ultimate Europe packing list is perfect for those looking to pack light and be a bit more minimalist in their adventure. While this certainly isn’t a complete bare-bones packing list for those who want to, say, travel carry-on only, it is good for those looking to not bring everything but the kitchen sink.

This is intended that you pack in a larger main piece of luggage (whether that be a travel backpack , wheeled backpack or traditional suitcase) along with a smaller piece of carry-on luggage such one from Level8 .

If you want to keep your items all organised then we also suggest using some packing cubes like the Eagle Creek Pack-It Compression Cubes

This checklist is also appropriate for all sexes and genders, just pick and choose some things as they don’t apply to you.

Figuring out what kind of clothing to bring is arguably the most important and most difficult thing about packing for Europe.

As mentioned earlier, it’s always a great idea to opt for neutral colours and items that you can mix and match to ensure that you can have some variety in your outfits without having to bring too many things and take up necessary valuable space in your luggage.

• Depending on the season or region of Europe you’re visiting, either bring a mixture of long-sleeve and short-sleeve tops, just long-sleeve or just short-sleeve tops to wear in Europe.
• I always recommend bringing one or two nicer tops or button-down shirts along with more casual t-shirts or tops. We like Bluffworks t-shirts as they’re both practical and also look good!
• Bringing one pair of jeans and one pair of another type of trouser is a great idea or one pair of lighter jeans and one pair of darker jeans. Having at least one pair of pants that can be dressed up is always a good idea
• You can browse some of our the best options in our best pants for travel in Europe guide.
• I, personally, love Bluffworks’ dresses , which have concealed pockets, a classic and flattering cut and can be dressed up or dressed down depending on the situation. Oh, it also is wrinkle-resistant and fully machine washable.
• If you’re visiting Southern Europe or simply travelling in the summer months, then having one or two pairs of shorts can be a great idea, especially when you need to keep cool or are heading to the beach.
• If your trip is during winter, having a tank top or light base layer will keep you warm without having to result in a bulky coat or jacket.
• Depending on the season or region, a cosy wool sweater or a light cardigan is a great idea when packing for 2 weeks in Europe. It can also be a good idea if you bring one that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion (are you seeing a trend here?).
• Of course, you likely don’t need to include a jacket at all if you’re travelling to, say southern Spain or Malta in July, however, depending on the season, a warm, lightweight jacket is always a good idea for your trip.
• We recommend a packable down jacket ( click here for men’s version ), however, we have written a detailed guide for the best jacket for Europe depending on your needs.
• No matter the region or season, a rain jacket is always a good idea, as you can get caught out in a storm regardless of where and when you are travelling.
• We love the North Face Resolve ( click here for men’s version) as it has consistently kept us warm and dry in the rainiest of conditions.
• How much underwear you bring really depends on at what point in your trip you want to do laundry. If you want to avoid washing at all, then go ahead and bring 14 or 15 pairs of underwear. They do take up valuable space, however.
• Like underwear, how many socks (and the kinds of socks) you bring really depends on your shoe preference and just how often you want to do laundry.
• Bringing a swimming suit is a great idea even if you’re not going to a seaside destination. You never know when you may go to a bathhouse, sauna or pool on your Europe trip no matter the season.
• If you happen to be travelling to a beachy destination like Italy or Spain , consider bringing 2 pairs so you have time to dry each suit between wearings.
• I, personally, like to bring one regular bra and one sports bra, but this really depends on your needs and preferences.
• If you’re not a pajamas person, then don’t bother. I am, so I bring them. One pair for 2 weeks is sufficient.

Shoes take up A LOT of space in your luggage so limiting the footwear you bring on your Europe trip can be the ticket for maximising the space in your bags.

We have a complete guide on the best shoes for Europe to help you pick the right footwear for you. This is just what we recommend bringing when you’re compiling a packing list for 2 weeks.

• A good pair of sturdy, stylish walking sneakers is essential. Pick comfortable walking shoes that you can walk in for hours and kilometres and not have sore feet.
• I, personally, love the Ecco Soft 7 trainers and wear them all the time. For a men’s version consider the Ecco Soft 7 Runner.
• Choose your second pair of shoes depending on your style and the season you’re travelling in.
• If you’re an active traveller, are visiting a largely outdoor destination, or simply plan to do a bit of walking and hiking, then a good pair of hiking boots such as the Merrell Siren Edge for women ( available on REI here ) or Merrell Moab 2 for men ( available on REI here ) is essential.
• Small, compact, and helpful for everywhere from the beach to a hostel shower to a public pool, a pair of flip flops should always make it into your luggage!

Accessories

Whether fashion accessories or handy electronic gadgets, some of these are absolutely essential items to bring with you on your trip to Europe!

• The most important accessory of them all!
• Perfect for add a splash of style to any outfit, sipping over your head or shoulders if you’re visiting a church, using as a makeshift blanket, and also for its traditional use, a scarf is absolutely necessary to bring with you no matter the season.
• A warm hat to keep you toasty in the winter in Europe is always welcome, as is a sun hat to protect you from the harsh rays during summer in Europe.
• An essential item on any winter packing list!
• A solid anti-theft handbag like the PacSafe Cityscape or day pack is perfect for keeping your valuables safe and secure while you’re out and about sightseeing and exploring.
• Buying water and using plastic water bottles is a thing of the past. There are an infinite number of great water bottles for travelling to choose from like a Hydro Flask and you’ll never need to buy a single-use plastic bottle again.
• If you’re more serious about your photography than simply relying on your phone, then bringing a good camera is a great idea.
• We love the Sony A6400 for its high-quality images at a decent starting budget and there being several great travel lenses to use with it. Make sure to bring extra memory cards!
• You always need to have something good to read, but don’t want to pack a bunch of heavy books to bring with you – a Paperwhite Kindle solves all of these problems and it is an absolutely essential item if you love to read.
• Buy a prepaid SIM card like the Orange 20GB SIM either as physical SIM or eSIM to ensure you can stay connected in Europe.
• Finding a universal plug adaptor with a number of different USB drives is a fantastic option and is an absolutely essential item when travelling to Europe from elsewhere in the world!
• Finally, a power bank will give you peace of mind should your phone die while you are out and about or if you forget to give something a much-needed charge when you need to use it.
• Making sure you have an adequate number of charging cords for all of your devices will ensure that you can make sure everything can get the best battery life possible.
• A travel pillow is nice to have if you have a long flight or are taking overnight trains or buses.
• World Nomads   offers flexible and simple travel insurance policies with coverage for more than 150 activities that you can buy or extend while on the road.
• SafetyWing offers travel medical insurance policies that can are an option for long term budget travellers.
• Save your money and landfill space and forgo the travel-sized toiletries for refillable bottles of your shampoo and conditioner. We love GoToobs .
• You might want to bring earplugs if you’re staying at a hostel or budget accommodation where street noise can be an issue or for your flight.
• To avoid unnecessary spills in your toiletry bag, we recommend using a bar soap rather than a shower gel, but this is really up to you
• Keep your dry skin nice and hydrated!
• Bring as little makeup as you need. Personally, I limit myself to one lipstick, one eyeliner, mascara, a small eye shadow palette, foundation and a few brushes. I also make sure I have facial cleansing wipes for makeup removal and just to wash my face at the end of the day.
• If you’re a lens wearer, you need to pack this!
• Blisters and cuts happen, best to be prepared rather than have to hunt for a pharmacy to find these things while travelling.
• While you can get ibuprofen and the other over-the-counter pretty much everywhere, it’s always nice to have it on hand should a headache threaten to put a damper in your Europe trip. Ditto with other OTC medications you take regularly.

Piecing together the Europe packing list for 2 weeks doesn’t have to be all that difficult if you take into consideration all of the things outlined above. Think minimally and pack light and you’re sure to have a fantastic time on your adventure — wherever it may be that you’re going!

Are you trying to figure out what to pack for two weeks in Europe? Was this packing list helpful for your trip? Let us know in the comments!

Related Posts:

Backpacking Europe Packing List & Pre-Trip Checklist

25 Best Travel Accessories for Europe

The Best Travel Pants for Europe (Winter or Summer!)

About Maggie Turansky

Maggie is a co-founder and writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from the US, she has lived in five different countries and has travelled to dozens more, both solo and with her partner, Michael. She particularly loves exploring Spain and spending time in the Caucasus and the Baltics. Read more about Maggie

This is a great comprehensive list. It helps to prioritize what is really essential and can serve as a thorough starting point even if you want to tweak it some to meet your needs. I would add socks, belt and 1 or two costume jewelry pieces to the list.

Great list. I reviewed it against my list and they were pretty close. I have been reading your other articles and they have been most helpful. Many thanks!

This is very helpful. Thanks. I always seems to pack too much. Helen

Can most of this fit in a carry on and a personal bag?

This can be really dependent on the kind of bag, how you pack and the airline’s requirements! Sorry I couldn’t be more helpful 🙂

Thanks this was very helpful for a first time traveler 😉

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Travel Tips 2024

1. Pack smart and start with an empty bag. If you start packing with an empty bag, you are less likely to bring prohibited items to the checkpoint. Not sure what’s prohibited? Visit our “ What Can I Bring?” webpage.

Know the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Remember, if you can spill it, spray it, spread it, pump it or pour it, then it is a liquid and must be packed in your checked bag. Pack liquids, gels and aerosols larger than 3.4 ounces in a checked bag to avoid having the carry-on bag pulled aside, opened by a Transportation Security Officer (TSO), and then potentially having to voluntarily abandon the item because it is over 3.4 ounces. If you are traveling with an infant, most items in your diaper bag are exempt from TSA’s 3-1-1 rule. Breast milk, powdered formula, baby food, bottles and sippy cups are all allowed to fly in the passenger cabin of the aircraft. This also goes for liquid and cream medications. Please separate these items from your bag and place them into a different bin for X-ray screening. If your item alarms, additional screening may be required. 

2. Arrive early. Travelers are taking to the skies in record numbers, so plan to arrive at least two hours prior to your flight’s scheduled boarding time to allow enough time to park, navigate to the terminal, check luggage with the airline if needed and go through security screening before arriving at your gate. Arrive at least three hours before international flights.

3. Bring an acceptable ID. Before heading to the airport, make sure you have acceptable identification and make it a REAL ID since you must have a REALID -compliant ID to fly by May 7, 2025.  Visit the TSA website to learn which IDs are accepted by TSA at the entrance to the security checkpoint. Identity verification is a critical step of the screening process.

4. Do you carry a firearm? Prepare, pack and declare . If you plan to travel with a firearm, you must properly pack the firearm in a hard-sided, locked case in your checked luggage and declare it with the airline while checking in at the airline ticket counter. Bringing a firearm in your carry-on bag to a TSA checkpoint, even accidentally, is expensive and will cause delays for you and others, even if you have a concealed carry permit or live in a constitutional carry jurisdiction. If you bring a firearm to the security checkpoint on your person or in carry-on bag, TSA will contact law enforcement, who may arrest or cite the passenger, depending on state law. TSA may impose a civil penalty up to almost $15,000 for the first offense, and those who bring a firearm to a security checkpoint will lose TSA PreCheck® eligibility for five years. Second violations will result in permanent disqualification from the program and additional civil penalties. When traveling, be sure to comply with the laws concerning possession of firearms as they vary by local, state and international laws.

5. Be aware of new checkpoint screening technology. TSA uses a variety of methods and technologies to enhance security effectiveness, efficiency and the passenger experience. Screening protocols vary from airport to airport, depending on available technology and the current threat environment. Some airports use the second generation of Credential Authentication Technology ( CAT ), called CAT-2 units. This technology confirms the authenticity of a passenger’s identification credentials with their acceptable photo identification  (ID) along with their flight details and pre-screening status, but with an added camera feature. The facial recognition technology TSA uses helps ensure the person standing at the checkpoint is the same person pictured on their ID. Photos are not stored or saved after a positive ID match has been made, except in a limited testing environment for evaluation of the effectiveness of the technology.

Passenger participation is voluntary. If a passenger chooses not to have their photo taken, they may have their identity checked manually without penalty or losing their place in line. Passengers who do not want their photo taken should alert the TSO, who will verify their ID using the CAT machine only. For more information on how TSA is using facial recognition technology, see TSA’s Privacy Impact Assessments , Fact Sheet and biometrics technology webpages.

Several airports have installed Computed Tomography (CT) units. This technology significantly improves scanning and threat detection capabilities for carry-on bags. CT units give TSOs the ability to review a 3D image of passengers’ bags and reduce the need to physically search the contents of the bag. In airports with these CT units in place, you do not need to remove your 3-1-1 liquids or laptops, but you must place every carry-on item, including bags, into a bin for screening. TSA reminds you that you may only bring at maximum one carry-on bag and one personal item through security screening

6. Travel with ease with TSA PreCheck. Join more than 20 million members benefiting from the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler program . TSA PreCheck passengers are low-risk travelers who do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, food, laptops and light jackets at the security checkpoint. Wait time standards for TSA PreCheck lanes are under 10 minutes, whereas standard screening lanes are 30 minutes and under. Visit www.tsa.gov/precheck for more information on enrolling with one of TSA’s three enrollment providers. TSA PreCheck members are reminded to make sure their Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in their airline reservation, so it appears on their boarding pass.

7. Call ahead to request passenger support. If you or a family member require additional assistance through security screening, you may request a TSA Passenger Support Specialist (PSS). A PSS is a TSO who has received specialized training, including how to effectively assist and communicate with individuals with disabilities, medical conditions or those who need general additional screening assistance. Individuals should request passenger assistance at least 72 hours in advance by contacting our TSA Cares passenger support line at (855) 787-2227. TSA Cares live assistance is available weekdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET, or weekends and holidays from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET. An automated service is available 24/7.

8. Text or @AskTSA before heading to the airport. You can get real-time assistance by texting questions to 275-872 (“AskTSA”) or through @AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger . An automated virtual assistant is available 24/7. You may also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673. Visit our Contact Us page for more information. 

9. Listen to and respect frontline employees. Pack an extra dose of patience, especially during these high travel volumes, and show gratitude to all those who are working to get everyone to their destinations safely including TSA and airport personnel, gate agents and flight attendants. Please follow instructions from the TSOs when going through security screening.  Violence and unruly behavior in the transportation systems are not acceptable and result in significant delays at traveler checkpoints. TSOs, along with all frontline airport and airline employees and local law enforcement, are working together to ensure safe and secure travel. Assaulting a TSA employee is a federal offense and will result in penalties and/or arrest.

10. Remain aware. Be aware of your surroundings and report suspicious activities. Remember: If You See Something, Say Something™.

When are the best and worst times to travel on Labor Day weekend? What to know before you go

As New Yorkers plan to take one last trip before sending the kids back to school, you may be wondering when the best and worst time to travel to and from your Labor Day weekend destination is.

Over this Labor Day weekend, AAA’s Labor Day travel trends report states overall domestic travel is up 9% compared to last year and the cost to travel domestically is down 2%. And if you're planning to drive, you'll probably be paying less for gas compared to last year as gas prices have been hovering around $3.50 versus $3.81 in 2023.

"For many families, Labor Day is the last hurrah before school begins," AAA says. "To make the most of those trips, AAA recommends identifying must-see sights and creating a flexible itinerary ahead of time."

Here's what to know.

Where are the most popular Labor Day destinations?

New York City ranked high on AAA’s list of the top 10 most popular Labor Day weekend destinations in the U.S. for 2024, in fourth place, behind Seattle, WA, Orlando, FL and Anchorage, AK.

Here’s AAA’s list of the top 10 most popular Labor Day weekend destinations in the U.S. this year:

• Seattle, Washington
• Orlando, Florida
• Anchorage, Alaska
• New York, New York
• Boston, Massachusetts
• Las Vegas, Nevada
• Denver, Colorado
• Chicago, Illinois
• Juneau, Alaska
• San Francisco, California

What are the best and worst times to drive for Labor Day weekend 2024?

You should avoid traveling in the afternoon and early evening hours of Thursday and Friday, according to transportation data and insights provider INRIX, but travel in the afternoon if you're planning to leave on Saturday.

If you're returning home on Sunday or Labor Day, it's best to leave as early as possible to avoid heavy afternoon traffic.

"Drivers should expect the most severe traffic jams before the holiday weekend as commuters mix with travelers," INRIX transportation analyst Bob Pishue says. "Monitoring traffic apps, local news stations and 511 traveler information services may help drivers navigate around congestion and reduce driver frustration this Labor Day."

Here are the best and worst times to travel by car this Labor Day weekend, according to AAA and INRIX:

Best times for departing

• Thursday, Aug. 29: Before 11 a.m.
• Friday, Aug. 30: Before noon, after 7 p.m.
• Saturday, Aug. 31: After noon

Worst times for departing

• Thursday, Aug. 29: 1-7:30 p.m.
• Friday, Aug. 30: 2-6 p.m.
• Saturday, Aug. 31: 8-11 a.m.

Best times for returning

• Sunday, Sept. 1: Before noon
• Monday, Sept. 2: Before 10 a.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 3: After 1 p.m.

Worst times for returning

• Sunday, Sept. 1: 2-8 p.m.
• Monday, Sept. 2: 11 a.m.-8 p.m.
• Tuesday, Sept. 3: 8 a.m.-noon

When is Labor Day 2024?: Date, meaning, and why we celebrate

What days of the week are the best days to fly this Labor Day weekend?

Here are the best and worst days to fly on Labor Day weekend,  according to NerdWallet.com . This list is based on an average from the past four years. The days are listed in order, from the most to least busy travel days of the week of Labor Day.

• Friday before Labor Day (most crowded)
• Labor Day Monday
• Sunday after
• Thursday before
• Friday after
• Monday after
• Thursday after
• Monday before
• Tuesday after
• Sunday before
• Saturday before
• Wednesday before
• Wednesday after
• Saturday after
• Tuesday before (least crowded)

Contributing: USA TODAY Network-Florida reporter Lianna Norman

Emily Barnes is the New York State Team consumer advocate reporter for the USA TODAY Network.  Follow her on Twitter and Instagram  @byemilybarnes .  Get in touch at   [email protected] .

Your guide to hotel bliss: Where to stay for top-notch amenities

Readers' top picks for places to stay in style.

There are lots of reasons to stay at one hotel over another, and when you're trying to decide where to book, it often comes down to which hotel has the best features. Maybe the property is home to an amazing spa or has an awesome pool area, or perhaps you appreciate the farm-to-table dining at the on-site hotel restaurant or that a resort is focused on sustainability.

To find the hotels with the best features and amenities, USA TODAY 10Best asked an expert panel to nominate their top picks in each of five categories. Then, readers voted for their favorites to decide the winners.

Click on each category below to see the full winners list:

Best Eco-Friendly Hotel: The Cliffs at Princeville in Princeville, Hawaii

The Cliffs at Princeville, located on 22 acres of Kauai's North Shore, has won recognition for its sustainability achievements. Renewable energy powers the resort by more than 50%, LED lights are in use, over 20% of waste generated on the property is recycled, and their water conservation program supports reusable containers over bottled water.

Learn more: Best travel insurance

Full list of winners: Best Eco-Friendly Hotel »

Best Hotel Bar: Carousel Bar & Lounge at Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans, Louisiana

The Carousel Bar & Lounge is a famous stopping point in the revered Hotel Monteleone. Built in 1949, the 25-seat bar gently spins its patrons around as they sip a drink from the expansive cocktail menu. Non-revolving seating is available for those drinkers who'd rather stay stationary while they imbibe.

Full list of winners: Best Hotel Bar »

Best Hotel Pool: Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu in Koloa, Hawaii

Koloa Landing Resort at Poipu is home to one of the largest single pools on the island of Kauai, a 350,000-gallon masterpiece packed with waterslides, swim-through waterfalls, a grotto, and an infinity edge.

The smaller but equally spectacular Lagoon Pool offers more than 6,000 square feet of family-friendly fun, while the more intimate Tranquility Pool provides a quiet oasis for guests 18 and older.

Full list of winners: Best Hotel Pool »

Best Hotel Restaurant: Chez Philippe at The Peabody Memphis in Memphis, Tennessee

For fine dining with a French twist, look no further than Chez Philippe at the historic Peabody Memphis. Executive chef Andreas Kisler is at the helm of this top dining destination offering a four-course prix fixe menu and a seven-course tasting menu, which you can enhance with a six-course wine pairing.

Full list of winners: Best Hotel Restaurant »

Best Hotel Spa: The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida

This grand dame of spas in Orlando is a 40,000-square-foot retreat that includes 40 treatment rooms, an enormous heated lap pool, a full salon, and a spa cafe. You might become so relaxed from The Ritz-Carlton's signature treatments — which incorporate ingredients from the resort's organic garden — that you forget to visit the theme parks.

Full list of winners: Best Hotel Spa »

Congratulations to all these winners! Remember to visit 10best.usatoday.com daily to vote in more Readers' Choice Awards.

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